Gelsinger's death has raised public questions about the safety and control over gene therapy in this country. It has also focused attention on one of the key methods of gene therapy, the use of viruses to deliver the genetic treatments. Following the disclosure of the boy's death during the trial, some experiments using a similar virus were put on hold. In a dramatic presentation at today's news conference, Paul Gelsinger supported the researchers. One potential consequence of not complying is suspension or termination of funding.
Gene therapy is seen by many as the most promising advance on the medical horizon.
Medical science has now identified dozens of gene mutations that cause disease, from cancer to heart attack. Researchers are finding ways to correct these problems by injecting into patients normal genes to replace those that are flawed or missing. More than 350 gene therapy trials are under way, said Patterson, and, until recently, there have been no serious problems, although there has been only modest success. The Associated Press contributed to this story. The Web Copyright 2000 ABC News Internet Ventures.