The procedure they have developed allows scientists to introduce healthy genes into cells that are diseased.

Thierry Vandendriessche of the Catholic University of Leuven explains: "Until now geneticists mainly used weakened cells to introduce cells into the genes of human beings.

"Sometimes this led to unfortunate side effects. Now a non-viral means of transport has been developed. It provides a safe and effective way of replacing diseased genes by healthy ones."

This gene therapy is used to treat patients with inherited diseases and certain forms of cancer.

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