Gene therapy is the use of genes and the techniques of genetic engineering in the treatment of a genetic disorder or chronic disease. Most of the techniques are still being experimented with and are awaiting government approval (Concise Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia). Some 2000 to 3000 diseases have been determined as genetic or hereditary (Access Excellence). With the perfection of gene therapy, thousands of lives could be spared.
             Gene therapy may eventually provide effective treatment for many diseases that currently have no cure: muscular dystrophy, diabetes, cancer, and even acquired immune deficiency (AIDS) (Access Excellence). By the addition of a single gene to a number of lab mice, a group of scientists successfully enhanced the mice's memory with little to no noticeable side effects (Stableford 16). This discovery could lead to further ways to treat brain and memory diseases, such as Alzheimer's (Herger). Advances in genetic therapy like this one may answer and prove other theories not directly related to disease and genetics (Encarta).
             Along with genetic therapy being able to confirm a person's genes to be free of disease also comes the capability of confirming a child's physical traits to the parent's specifications. With the use of gene therapy doctors have the ability to alter genes while the fetus is still in the womb of its mother. By tampering with a certain gene or genes doctors are able to alter eye color, hair color, and other features normally passed on from the parents. The idea of it sounds to be like that of a computer company, speak with a representative, list the hardware and equipment desired (in this case hair color, eye color, or whatever other preference the parent has) and in nine months you have your merchandise delivered just how you want it. There is a question that may come to one's mind when considering this type of selectiveness "is this taking genetic therapy too far?"
             ...