More than 1,000 different mutations can cause cystic fibrosis, so scientists need many tools rather than a single drug. Current gene-editing methods can sometimes change nearby DNA letters by mistake. These unintended changes are called bystander mutations and they raise safety concerns.
To reduce these errors, researchers changed the connection between the editor parts and made the editor bind less strongly to DNA. In human cell tests the redesigned editor cut bystander edits a lot while keeping action at the intended site. The work is promising but it is still at an early preclinical stage.
Difficult words
- mutation — a change in a gene or DNAmutations
- bystander mutation — DNA change near the intended sitebystander mutations
- gene-editing — changing genes to fix a DNA problem
- editor — a tool that changes DNA in cells
- bind — attach to another molecule or part
- letters — single units in the DNA code
- preclinical — before tests in real patients
- concern — a worry about possible safety or harmconcerns
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think it is important to reduce unintended DNA changes? Why or why not?
- What worries might people have about new gene-editing tools?
- Would you want more tests before using a new medical tool? Why?
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