Academics, Government Scientists Working To Find Cure For Progeria With Gene Editing Technique

The New York Times (7/24, Kolata) reports “a small group of academics and government scientists...is working with no expectation of financial gain to halt progeria in its tracks with an innovative gene editing technique.” After over 20 years “of research, the group is approaching manufacturers and planning to seek approval from regulators for a clinical trial on progeria gene editing.” If investigators find “gene editing is effective in slowing or halting progeria, researchers say, the method may also help to treat other rare genetic diseases that have no treatments or cures and, like progeria, have aroused little interest from drug companies.”