This is the blog for GW students taking Human Evolutionary Genetics. This site is for posting interesting tidbits on: the patterns and processes of human genetic variation;human origins and migration; molecular adaptations to environment, lifestyle and disease; ancient and forensic DNA analyses; and genealogical reconstructions.

GWHEG figure

GWHEG figure

Sunday, March 8, 2020

First use of CRISPR inside a human body -- Potuck 3/10/20, Mackenzie Hepker

Scientists have recently attempted to use CRISPR to cure a genetic disorder called congenital amaurosis, which causes blindness. The mutation causes the loss of function of a protein in the retina that converts light into the signals used by the brain. The researchers conducted retinal surgery on patients with the condition and CRISPR'd out the mutation within the gene, in the hopes that the DNA will ligate and the gene will function normally for the rest of the patients' lives. Results may not be observable for up to a month -- but it's exciting if it works!

https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/doctors-use-crispr-gene-editing-inside-person-s-body-first-n1149711

Mack
Potluck 3/10/2020

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