Baby with rare disease given world-first personal CRISPR gene therapy
New Scientist1 day
Custom CRISPR Gene Therapy Saves Baby With Rare Disease
Above: A Principal Research Associate at Crispr Therapeutics on Dec. 5, 2023 in Boston, Mass. Image copyright: Jonathan Wiggs/Contributor/The Boston Globe via Getty Images
The Spin
Techno-optimist narrative
This groundbreaking achievement highlights the remarkable potential of personalized gene editing to revolutionize medicine. The swift development time and successful implementation prove that custom genetic treatments can be both feasible and practical, potentially offering hope to millions affected by rare genetic disorders who currently have no viable treatment options.
Techno-skeptic narrative
The experimental nature of this treatment raises significant concerns about long-term safety and efficacy. Without comprehensive long-term studies, the risks of unintended genetic changes remain unknown, and the high cost of personalized treatments could create accessibility barriers for many patients who need them.