There are two different types that can be used in gene therapy. Those are:
1. Somatic Gene Therapy
2. Germ line Engineering
Somatic Gene Therapy
Somatic Gene Therapy is a method that a patient can choose when undergoing gene therapy. In this process, genetic material is inserted directly into body cells and tissues. This, however, excludes reproductive cells. Somatic cells, which are ones that are non-reproductive. This procedure (although experimental) is perceived as a more conservative method of a genetic transfer. This is due to the fact that this procedure affects only the targeted cells. This also prevents it from being passed on from future generations, which is a large appeal to some. In somatic gene therapy, it can either be administered in Ex Vivo form or In Vivo form.
Germ Line Gene Therapy
Germ line therapy affects the cells in a permanent way. These permanent changes are passed down to subsequent generations. If done early in the embryotic stages, the genetic transfer could even result in affecting all cells of the developing child. Although many are keen on trying the somatic approach, germ line therapy has a huge appeal. This appeal is the potential for offering a permanent fix to those who could possibly inherit the gene.