This represents the "curative" frontier of biotech. Rather than managing symptoms, gene therapy attempts to fix the underlying genetic defect. By using viral vectors to deliver functional genes into a patient’s cells, scientists are finding ways to treat rare genetic disorders and blindness. Challenges in the Field

That gene is inserted into a "vector" (usually a circular piece of DNA called a plasmid).

A fundamental distinction in the field is between small molecule drugs and biopharmaceuticals (biologics).

The production of biologics relies on bioprocessing. This involves the cultivation of cells in bioreactors—large stainless steel tanks that provide the optimal environment (nutrients, oxygen, temperature) for cells to grow and reproduce.