Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed advanced CRISPR gene editing technology to modify an entire gene network in one shot. This is a significant step forward in correcting genetic disorders, as many genetic abnormalities and mutations that lead to palpable symptoms are controlled by several genes in various locations on the genome. The advance resulted from the use of a CRISPR enzyme called Cas12a, as opposed to Cas9, which is currently used for all gene editing done with the CRISP technology.
This technique in gene editing improves on the standard CRISPR Cas9 technique, since the current standard uses pre-designed guide RNA to find and select one specific DNA target. The new technique uses a circular piece of DNA that contains several RNA targets that can potentially target hundreds of genes at once. Increasing the scale of gene editing could create a viable option for patients suffering from disorders like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, muscular dystrophy etc.
This advancement in bioengineering will accelerate this trend and broaden applications to treat a wider variety of diseases and disorders. By banking their own valuable stem cells, families can ensure that they will have access to these emerging therapies soon. To learn more about banking stem cells, please visit StemSave or call 877-783- 6728 (877-StemSave) today.
The Future of Regenerative Medicine is Now™
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