Tag: CRISPR

Scientists have devised a CRISPR-based tool that can kill cells carrying a specific strand of RNA. The tested targets include cancerous and virus-infected cells [1]. Targeted assassination of cells CRISPR-based systems work by cutting or changing DNA at a particular spot, an ability that can be used to fix dangerous mutations, such as in the...

In a new study, an ingenious CRISPR-based tool was used to create CAR T cells in vivo instead of the usual in vitro approach. It showed higher efficacy across three cancer types, including a solid tumor [1]. CAR T therapies: promising but imperfect Ideally, T cells, the killer cells of our adaptive immune systems, should...

Using an ingenious CRISPR-based screening technique, scientists have found a protein that tags tau for degradation and is more strongly expressed in tau-resilient neurons [1]. Some neurons are more equal than others The accumulation of tau protein fibrils in neurons is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s and several other diseases [2]. Scientists have long noticed that...

A new Phase 1 trial produced encouraging safety and efficacy results for a CRISPR-based gene therapy that silences a gene important for lipid regulation. This therapy might increase adherence and reduce side effects [1]. Addressing the adherence problem High levels of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglycerides are a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and...

Researchers publishing in Cell Reports Medicine have taken a look at what causes CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology to drive cells senescent and investigated a potential method of preventing it. Breaking and repairing DNA Genetic engineering of living cells through CRISPR/Cas9 technology requires three things to occur. The DNA must be disconnected in a double-strand break, new...

Researchers publishing in Cell Stem Cell have demonstrated that genetically diseased liver cells can be taken from human beings, altered in the laboratory, and used to regrow the livers of model mice. Recreating an entire organ has its own difficulties These researchers begin their paper by discussing existing cellular therapies for multiple tissues, such as...