health
In late 2023, regulators in the UK and US approved the first-ever medicine based on CRISPR gene editing, used to treat sickle cell disease.
This CRISPR-based therapy works by precisely editing the patient's own DNA, specifically reprogramming their stem cells so they start producing a form of hemoglobin normally only made before birth, which compensates for the faulty adult hemoglobin that causes sickle cell disease's painful complications.
Replacing blood with synthetic plasma isn't how this treatment works at all, it edits the patient's existing cells rather than substituting in an artificial blood product. Training immunity with a standard vaccine describes an entirely different medical approach, vaccines prompt the immune system to recognize pathogens, unrelated to editing genes that control hemoglobin production.
Called Casgevy, this was the first CRISPR-based medicine ever approved by regulators, marking a genuine turning point where a gene-editing tool first discovered in bacteria's defense systems became an actual treatment given to patients.
health
What are these wearable devices called?Which AI system achieved this protein-folding breakthrough?Which brain protein do these new Alzheimer's drugs target?What are these engineered immune cells commonly called?What is this community of microbes collectively called?What concept do scientists use to estimate the body's true wear from cells and molecules?What field tailors medicines to a person's genetic makeup?Which common heart-rhythm problem are these watches designed to flag?What do these smart rings mainly measure while you sleep?What is consulting a doctor remotely by video or phone usually called?What are these clinically validated treatment apps called?What aspect of well-being do these popular apps mainly aim to support?Quration — Quration Play