340: Crisis in CRISPR world, RFK Jr.'s promises, and a novel non-opioid pain drug

The Challenges Facing CRISPR Companies

The CRISPR gene editing industry is currently undergoing significant challenges, marked by widespread layoffs and declining stock prices among most companies in the field. Despite having made initial advancements, the expectation for rapid commercialization of CRISPR-derived therapies has not materialized, with significant market skepticism stemming from the limited number of patients treated with the first approved CRISPR medicine. Many firms, once riding a wave of optimism, are now struggling with tough questions surrounding their business models and the ongoing viability of their treatments. This downturn has led analysts to speculate whether these companies can find sustainable paths forward or if the industry's promise has diminished altogether.