Kiran Musunuru

Dr. Kiran Musunuru, a gene-editing researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, shares an inspiring story about baby KJ, the first patient to receive personalized gene-editing therapy for a rare genetic condition. They discuss the urgency and complexity of developing this life-saving treatment, emphasizing the collaborative efforts among researchers. Musunuru explains the potential of gene therapy for rare diseases and the hurdles faced in advancing these technologies. The conversation highlights the transformative power of personalized medicine and the need for continued research funding.

Dr. Kiran Musunuru, a leader in translational research, and Dr. Rebecca Ahrens-Nicklas, a pediatrician focused on genetics, join the discussion about a groundbreaking gene-editing treatment for a baby with a life-threatening disorder. They explain how CRISPR technology was tailored specifically for this case and share the emotional journey of the family involved. The conversation also touches on the scalability of such treatments, funding challenges, and the critical role of responsible media coverage in shaping public understanding of this medical advancement.

Neha Pagidipati, a preventive cardiologist at Duke University, and Kiran Musunuru, a cardiologist at the University of Pennsylvania, dissect cholesterol management strategies. They explore the effectiveness of diet versus advanced treatments. CRISPR technology stands out as a revolutionary approach to permanently turn off cholesterol-producing genes. The conversation also touches on statins, their benefits, and alternatives for patients with statin intolerance. The potential future of gene therapies in cardiovascular health is both exciting and uncertain.