The First Try to Use CRISPR for Treating Cancer in the US

On Wednesday, the first try to use CRISPR, a gene-editing method, in treating cancer was implemented by a team of doctors of the University of Pennsylvania. The results seem to be promising in 3 patients who participated in the experiment. However, it is too soon to conclude that this technique would improve their survival chance.

The scientists could extract immune system cells from the blood of these patients and make some genetic changes. The main goal is to ensure that these components would recognize cancer cells and fight against them, with controllable and minimal side effects.

During the procedure, 3 genes were removed as they prevent these cells from attacking cancer components. Also, another gene was added to improve the function.

“This is the most complex cellular and genetic engineering that has been tried so far,” said Dr. Edward Stadtmauer, the leader of the study. “This proves that we would edit the genes of those cells safely.”

After around 8 to 12 weeks, the condition of a patient kept worsening, while the second one was stable. Another patient started the treatment too recently and still waited for the results. The study is going to include 15 more participants to figure out the mechanism and safety of the method.

“It is still early to conclude, but I am extremely encouraged by the initial results,” said a cancer expert.

Gene editing is a method of changing DNA permanently to deal with the main triggers of cancer. CRISPR is a technique to cut DNA in a particular area. It has long been used in the laboratory and is being attempted for other medical conditions.

This research does not try to change DNA inside the body. Instead, it plans to remove, adjust and give back to the cells which are powerful enough to fight against cancer cells.

Chinese doctors have attempted this method, but this is the first time CRISPR is carried out in another country. It is so new that the regulators in the US only approves the technique after more than 2 years of consideration.

The early report was published by the American Society of Hematology. Other details and information will be provided in December at the annual conference.

The project is sponsored by many academic institutions and a biotech firm. These organizations would benefit from the licenses and patents on this new technology.

Source:

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03399448

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/chinese-scientist-says-he-made-gene-edited-twins-using-crispr-n940026

Related Articles

15 Thrilling Chamomile Tea Benefits

Food & Nutrition
Chamomile tea is one of the most popular drinks which provides us with a wide range of health benefits. It comes from a type of herb in the Asteraceae plant family. These daisy-like flowers have been used for a...

Sarcoidosis – Symptoms & Causes

Ailments & Conditions
Sarcoidosis is a condition in which granulomas or growth of inflammatory cells occur in many body parts. They often happen in lymph nodes and lungs, as well as other areas, such as the heart, skin, or eyes. The exact...

Common Facts about Ceylon Tea

Featured
What Is Ceylon Tea? Ceylon tea refers to a kind of black tea that is produced in Sri Lanka, previously called Ceylon. Despite relatively similar ingredients and processes, it is known for high antioxidant contents, a fragrant aroma, and a...

Top 10 Foods That Are High in Amino Acids

Food & Nutrition
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. These compounds play many important parts in the body, especially the synthesis of neurotransmitters and hormones. While it is possible to take in amino acids in the supplement form, many foods...

Facts of Scabies You Should Know

Your Health
Scabies is a disorder triggered by a mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. It often causes an itchy feeling which might be followed by a rash. This condition affects both females and males alike, occurs to people of all ages, as...

This Influenza Season Becomes the Longest One in the US in a Decade

Health News
This influenza season in the United States started as a mild and short period just 3 months ago, but an unexpected viral increase has recently made it become the longest over the last decade. According to official reports gathered during...

Occipital Neuralgia: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatments

Ailments & Conditions
Occipital neuralgia is a quite rare headache disorder that can inflict pain throughout occipital nerves, from the top of the spinal cord to the scalp. It often causes piercing pain in areas like the upper neck, behind the ears,...

Washing Raw Chicken Would Cause Illnesses rather than Clean It

Health News
According to a recently published research from the Department of Agriculture (USDA), washing raw chicken won't clean it, but would spread possibly harmful bacteria to other foods and kitchen areas that have already been washed thoroughly. "Many people often prepare...