Breakthrough for genetic hearing loss as gene editing prevents deafness in mice

Prospect of a new class of therapies that could transform future treatment of genetic hearing loss, at the root of nearly half of all cases of deafness

Deafness has been prevented in mice using gene editing for the first time, in an advance that could transform future treatment of genetic hearing loss.

The study found that a single injection of a gene editing cocktail prevented progressive deafness in baby animals that were destined to lose their hearing.

Crispr, or to give it its full name, Crispr-Cas9, allows scientists to precisely target and edit pieces of the genome. Crispr is a guide molecule made of RNA, that allows a specific site of interest on the DNA double helix to be targeted. The RNA molecule is attached to Cas9, a bacterial enzyme that works as a pair of "molecular scissors" to cut the DNA at the exact point required. This allows scientists to cut, paste and delete single letters of genetic code. 

Related: 'Chemical surgery' can correct genetic mutations behind many diseases – study

Related: DIY Crispr: biohacking your own genome – Science Weekly podcast

Continue reading... December 20, 2017 at 11:30PM