Blood disorders may be proving ground for gene-editing technique

Editing the human genome has been a stand-by in sci-fi movies for decades. But Crispr—the relatively easy and inexpensive editing technique, with emphasis on relatively—has led many to believe such a disease-curing technology is within reach.

To see Crispr's real abilities in solving otherwise difficult medical problems, scientists may need to look at blood disorders.

As the article in Wired says, "Plenty of gene-editing techniques have been attempted as therapies, but few have made significant impacts—especially when it comes to diseases as complex as cancer. A better place to start testing gene therapies is with inherited blood disorders, like sickle cell anemia and beta thalassemia."

Check out the full article below:

""
Nicholas Leider, Managing Editor

Nicholas joined TriMed in 2016 as the managing editor of the Chicago office. After receiving his master’s from Roosevelt University, he worked in various writing/editing roles for magazines ranging in topic from billiards to metallurgy. Currently on Chicago’s north side, Nicholas keeps busy by running, reading and talking to his two cats.

Around the web

The tirzepatide shortage that first began in 2022 has been resolved. Drug companies distributing compounded versions of the popular drug now have two to three more months to distribute their remaining supply.

The 24 members of the House Task Force on AI—12 reps from each party—have posted a 253-page report detailing their bipartisan vision for encouraging innovation while minimizing risks. 

Merck sent Hansoh Pharma, a Chinese biopharmaceutical company, an upfront payment of $112 million to license a new investigational GLP-1 receptor agonist. There could be many more payments to come if certain milestones are met.