MSK Researcher Questions Gene Editing Claims

CRISPR is a promising gene editing tool being studied in laboratories worldwide as an inexpensive and precise mechanism for targetting specific genetic mutations. It could one day translate into treatments for genetic diseases in humans.

Last year, biologists from Oregon Health & Science University, led by Dr. Shoukhrat Mitalipov, published a study in Nature claiming they used CRISPR to fix a heart-disease-causing mutation in fertilized human embryos. Many scientists, including MSK’s Dr. Maria Jasin, questioned the plausibility of the findings.

Last week, the study hit the news again. Nature published a rebuttal to the criticism by Dr. Mitalipov and colleagues, along with two critiques, including one co-authored by Dr. Jasin.

Read coverage of the updated study and critiques:
MIT Technology Review
Nature News and Comment
Science News
The Scientist
Stat News
Wired

Learn more about CRISPR:
Genetics Home Reference
National Cancer Institute
Science News for Students