A great deal of media attention has been given to the recent study showing that researchers have uncovered a novel way to shut down the extra number 21 chromosome responsible for Down syndrome.
This is certainly good news and the concept has great potential. But it is important to be aware that, thus far, the research has been confined only to human cells in a laboratory dish. There is still a long way to go.
Even if this approach is successful, it will take time to perfect the technique so it can be used in utero to hopefully prevent Down syndrome.
Questions have already been raised whether turning off one of the three 21 chromosomes present in Down syndrome (a person normally has two 21 chromosomes, one from mother and the other from father) will help individuals who already have Down syndrome.
Although we need to learn a lot more about the ramifications of turning off one of the 21 chromosomes, theoretically it can be helpful. It has the potential of improving a Down syndrome child's intellect; how much is not known.
There are many other potential benefits such as preventing certain conditions that are associated with Down syndrome including Alzheimer's disease, hypothyroidism, various autoimmune diseases, and leukemia.
Besides this breakthrough, research is also under way utilizing other methods to improve the abilities, capabilities, and skills of Down syndrome children and adults.
It was only 50 years ago that Down syndrome children were automatically sent to state institutions where they were "warehoused," not receiving any treatments or therapies.
Today, they are an integral part of their families receiving and giving a great deal of love to all. But a lot more needs to be done to further enrich their lives.
Hopefully, as a result of this new research, the management and future of Down syndrome individuals will dramatically improve.
But we must remember that the journey from the laboratory to being applied at the bedside, that is, to the patient, can be a long and arduous one, but at least the journey has started.
Dr. Murray Feingold, a Hazleton native, is on the staff of Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School. He is also the medical editor of CBS Boston Radio and writes a syndicated medical column.