CRISPR Gene Editing Shows Promise for Treating Rare Blindness

A pioneering CRISPR gene editing trial has demonstrated the potential to treat inherited retinal diseases, Science Daily reported yesterday.

According to the article, about 79% of participants experienced measurable vision improvement after receiving the experimental CRISPR-based therapy designed to fix a rare form of blindness.

“This trial shows CRISPR gene editing has exciting potential to treat inherited retinal degeneration,” said lead researcher Dr. Mark Pennesi. “There is nothing more rewarding than hearing a patient describe how their vision has improved.”

The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, mark the first time CRISPR has been used to edit genes within the human body.

Researchers hope future studies can refine the treatment and identify which patients may benefit most from this innovative approach.