Thursday, April 13, 2017

The Holy Grail of DNA, HITI

Adult body cells in tissues cannot divide. With this, DNA does not change or develop especially DNA found in the heart, brain and liver. Scientists have discovered a way to enter the cell and modify the DNA to prevent previously incurable diseases. The technique, known as HITI, was based on the famous CRISPR gene-editing technique. With this, they can insert DNA at a target location into the non-dividing cells that make up the majority of adult organs and tissues.

 The researchers used the technique on rats born with a genetic disease called retinitis pigmentosa, which affects about one in 4,000 people in the UK. Researchers are now using this mechanism to correct gene defects. Clinical trials are a long way off because the CRISPR proteins may cut DNA at other sites that may have untoward effects.'

https://www.thesun.co.uk/living/2205506/what-is-dna-editing-and-how-could-fixing-broken-genes-make-us-live-longer/

No comments:

Post a Comment