What is an experimental technique that alters genes within an individual's cells?

Gene therapy is the experimental technique that focuses on altering genes within an individual's cells to treat or prevent disease. This method involves the direct modification or replacement of genes to address genetic disorders, allowing for potential correction of malfunctioning genes responsible for disease development.

In gene therapy, the goal is to introduce or manipulate genetic material within a patient's cells to restore their normal function. This can involve adding new or modified genes to help produce a beneficial protein or to silence a gene that is causing a disease effect. The therapeutic approach holds promise for treating a range of diseases, including genetic disorders, some types of cancer, and viral infections.

The other choices, while related to genetics, do not specifically describe the alteration of genes within an individual's cells for therapeutic purposes. Gene editing is often a tool used within gene therapy but does not encompass the broader scope of delivering therapeutic genes. Genetic sequencing refers to determining the sequence of DNA bases and does not involve altering genes. Transgenic modification generally pertains to the introduction of foreign genetic material into an organism, which doesn't specifically relate to altering genes in an individual's cells for treatment.