Motley Fool Money CRISPR, Gene Therapies, and Cure Pricing Conundrums
Sep 17, 2022
Karl Thiel, a Motley Fool advisor and CRISPR expert, dives into the fascinating world of gene editing. He explains how CRISPR acts like molecular scissors with profound implications for health and agriculture. The discussion highlights the ethical dilemmas and pricing challenges faced by gene therapies. Thiel also explores how investors can navigate this complex landscape, offering insights into promising biotech metrics. With potential applications ranging from curing diseases to developing drought-resistant crops, the future of CRISPR is both exciting and controversial.
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CRISPR's Bacterial Origins and Mechanism
- CRISPR is a gene-editing tool derived from bacteria's defense mechanism against viruses.
- It acts like molecular scissors, cutting DNA at specific locations.
CRISPR vs. Traditional Gene Therapy
- Traditional gene therapy uses viruses as vectors to introduce genetic material, with limitations in DNA integration and control.
- CRISPR offers faster iteration, greater precision, and potential for safer gene editing compared to traditional methods.
CRISPR's Promise for Sickle Cell
- Sickle cell disease causes intensely painful episodes.
- CRISPR offers a potential functional cure by preventing these sickling events.