- Scientists improved a DNA editing tool for more precision.
- The tool changes single letters in the DNA code.
- This can help some people with cystic fibrosis mutations.
- Many different mutations cause cystic fibrosis and lung problems.
- Earlier editors sometimes changed nearby DNA letters by mistake.
- Researchers changed a small part between the editor parts.
- Tests in human cells showed many fewer bystander edits.
- The work could make gene therapies safer in future.
Difficult words
- mutation — a change in a gene or DNAmutations, mutations.
- precision — ability to make small exact changesprecision.
- bystander — something near an action that is not intended
- editor — a tool or person that makes changeseditors
- therapy — medical treatment to help with a diseasetherapies.
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Discussion questions
- Have you heard of DNA before?
- Would you want a treatment that fixes DNA?
- Do you know someone with a lung problem?
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