TED Talks Daily Can we cure genetic diseases by rewriting DNA? | David R. Liu
Apr 23, 2019
David R. Liu, a pioneering chemical biologist known for his work on DNA rewriting, discusses a revolutionary approach to combat genetic diseases using base editors. These molecular tools, akin to pencils, enable precise edits to DNA, offering hope for conditions like sickle cell anemia. Liu reveals the intricate engineering behind these editors and the ethical considerations surrounding their use. He also emphasizes the importance of collaboration in advancing this technology to improve health outcomes and revolutionize genetic medicine.
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Point Mutations and Genetic Disease
- Point mutations, single-letter swaps in DNA, can cause genetic diseases.
- These diseases are frustrating because we know the exact cause but couldn't fix it.
CRISPR's Origins and Function
- Bacteria use CRISPR as a defense mechanism against viruses, cutting viral DNA.
- This system can be programmed to cut specific DNA sequences.
Limitations of CRISPR for Genetic Diseases
- While CRISPR can cut DNA, simply cutting a mutated gene doesn't fix it.
- Restoring gene function requires fixing the mutation, not further disruption.