Which term describes methods that identify the presence, absence or mutation of a gene in an individual?

• A. Gene editing
• B. Immunizations
• C. Gene testing
• D. Stem cell research

Answer: (C)

Identifying whether a gene is present, absent, or mutated in an individual is a process of examining a person’s DNA to detect genetic variants. This is gene testing. It uses methods like DNA sequencing and genotyping to determine if a gene exists in its normal form or if there are mutations that could indicate a disease risk, confirm a diagnosis, or inform treatment or family planning decisions. This differentiates it from gene editing, which aims to change a gene’s sequence; immunizations, which are vaccines to prevent disease; and stem cell research, which studies or uses stem cells rather than specifically testing for gene presence or mutations.