CRISPR Technology Makes Major Advance in Cancer Treatment
Scientists have developed a breakthrough method using CRISPR gene editing technology that can specifically target and destroy cancer-causing mutations while leaving healthy genes untouched. The research, published in Science Advances, offers a potential new approach for treating cancers caused by single-letter changes in DNA.
The team focused on mutations in genes called KRAS, NRAS, and BRAF, which are involved in about one-third of all human cancers. Previously, it was extremely difficult to target these mutations because they differ from normal genes by just one DNA letter. Traditional drugs often affect both mutated and healthy versions of these genes, leading to side effects.
The researchers modified a protein called Cas13, which can be programmed to cut specific RNA sequences. RNA carries instructions from DNA to make proteins. By carefully designing guide molecules that help Cas13 find its target, they created a system that could distinguish between mutated and normal RNA with single-letter precision.
Key findings include:
The system effectively reduced levels of mutated KRAS by up to 90% while largely sparing normal KRAS
It worked against multiple different cancer-causing mutations in both laboratory tests and cancer cells
The approach showed fewer unintended effects compared to previous CRISPR systems
While promising, the technology still faces challenges before it can be used in patients. The biggest hurdle is delivering the CRISPR components into cancer cells in the body. The researchers are working on methods using nanoparticles to solve this problem.
This advance represents a significant step toward more precise cancer treatments that could potentially help millions of patients. The ability to specifically target cancer mutations while sparing healthy genes could lead to more effective therapies with fewer side effects.
The research was conducted by scientists at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Australia and other institutions. They are continuing to develop and refine the system for potential clinical use.
Reference
Principles of CRISPR-Cas13 mismatch intolerance enable selective silencing of point-mutated oncogenic RNA with single-base precision
About The Author
Darrell Drysen has over 25 years of experience in the Medical Device, Life Science, and Bio-Tech industries. As a technical leader, he holds patents in several fields including Brachytherapy, Electrophysiology, and Neurovascular implants. His outstanding ability to lead projects is evident from the numerous products he has taken from from concept through commercialization for both large companies and starts-ups. He joined ThermoGenesis in 2019 and is currently the Vice President of Operations.
Darrell holds certificates and degrees in Plastics Engineering Technology, Project Management, and Business Administration from California State University Sacramento and Cal Poly Pomona.
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