What process involves correcting mutations causing genetic diseases by delivering therapeutic DNA into a patient's cells?

Gene therapy is a process aimed at correcting mutations that cause genetic diseases by delivering therapeutic DNA into a patient's cells. This innovative approach typically involves inserting a normal copy of a gene or a modified gene into the genome of the patient's cells, thereby enabling the cells to produce a functional product that can alleviate or cure the underlying genetic disorder.

The fundamental principle behind gene therapy is the ability to repair or replace faulty genes responsible for disease, making it a direct intervention at the genetic level. This can be accomplished using different delivery methods, such as viral vectors, to transport the DNA into the target cells.

The other processes mentioned, while related to genetic and cellular manipulation, serve different purposes. Stem cell therapy focuses on using stem cells to regenerate damaged tissues or organs rather than correcting genetic mutations directly. CRISPR-Cas9 manipulation refers specifically to a precise gene-editing technology that can be used in conjunction with gene therapy rather than representing a standalone approach like gene therapy itself. RNA interference is a mechanism for silencing gene expression and is not directly involved in correcting mutations in the way gene therapy is designed to do.