Define the term 'gene therapy.'

The term 'gene therapy' is accurately defined as a technique that modifies a person's genes to treat or prevent disease. This method can involve introducing, removing, or altering genetic material within a patient's cells to address genetic disorders or other health conditions, such as certain cancers or inherited diseases.

Gene therapy aims to correct or compensate for faulty genes and is based on the understanding that many diseases are linked to abnormalities in genes. By addressing the underlying genetic issues, gene therapy has the potential to provide a lasting solution rather than merely treating symptoms. This approach is part of a growing field of personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to the unique genetic makeup of individuals.

Other options refer to different concepts within genetics and biotechnology. Cloning and analysis of genetic diseases pertain to different methodologies and areas of research, while the destruction of harmful genes does not represent the nuanced and potentially therapeutic intent of gene therapy, which focuses on modification rather than outright destruction.