CRISPR Advance Halves Gene-Editing Time in Human Trials
| Researchers at the Broad Institute announce the successful modification of the CRISPR-Cas system, significantly speeding up therapeutic application.
From Weeks to Days: Faster Therapeutic Windows
A new study published in Nature by researchers affiliated with the Broad Institute details a significant modification to the established CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing system. The modification, which utilizes a specially engineered delivery lipid, allows the targeted editing process to be completed in less than half the time compared to previous methods.
The accelerated timeline holds immense promise for personalized medicine, particularly in the rapid deployment of CAR T-cell therapies and other ex vivo (outside the body) treatments.
“Reducing the time needed for cell modification from two weeks down to three or four days dramatically improves cell viability and reduces the logistical complexity for the patient,” stated Dr. Lena Hales, the study’s lead author. “It shifts the economic viability of these life-saving treatments.”
The rapid editing capability is currently being tested in Phase I clinical trials for patients with certain rare blood disorders, with early indicators suggesting high efficiency and reduced side effects related to cell handling time.