Shanghai scientists make discovery in gene editing approach

China Daily

9th April 2020

Shanghai scientists make discovery in gene editing approach

By Zhou Wenting

Shanghai scientists have found in lab tests that a novel gene editing approach could for the first time regenerate retinal ganglion cells and therefore restore sight of mice that suffer from permanent visual impairment.

The technology, which converts particular glial cells into neurons, was also found to be able to help mice suffering from Parkinson's disease regain motor functions.

The lab results have provided insights into the clinical treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, muscular dystrophy, frostbite and certain types of blindness, said the research group from the Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS).

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