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A form of inherited blindness could be cured thanks to CRISPR, a gene editing technique that works from the inside of the body. This technique will begin to be tested for the first time in a study that awaits patient registration.
Which people will be treated and how does it work?
The eyes of these people are not abnormal, but the brain can not allow sight because it does not receive the signal. These people are born without the gene that converts light into signals. The goal of experimental treatment is to offer a healthy version of the gene to adults and children who do not have one. To do this, scientists will use a tool to modify the DNA where it needs to be modified. The native DNA of the person is irrevocably altered, so this treatment can not occur more than once.
Nearly 18 people will be tested by Allergan and Editas Medicine, testing companies starting in the fall. Patients also come from Mbadachusetts Eye and Ear in Boston. Sangamo Therapeutics has tried once again editing genes in the body using a tool called Zinc Fingers to treat metabolic diseases.
Another version of the CRISPR gene editing technology
A Chinese scientist proposed a more controversial technique last year. They thought of modifying the DNA of the embryos from conception so that future generations do not suffer from the same disease. Unfortunately, changes to the DNA in the US study will not be pbaded on to children.
A gene editing tool like CRISPR can be so easy to use, and that is what captivates scientists, who can help patients more quickly. However, they do not know all the risks yet. The chances of this being helpful in dealing with hereditary blindness are more important than the risks.
Lena Pierce is a reporter for Great Lakes Ledger. After graduating from Ryerson in Toronto, Lena completed an internship on CBC Radio in Calgary. Lena was also a beat journalist for the Calgary Flames. Lena mainly covers sporting and community events. Contact Lena here.
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