近日,科学家们发现了一种可对DNA进行改造的基因编辑法宝,它能修复受损基因,从而治愈绝症,甚至还可以延长寿命,看来长命百岁不再是梦啦! Scientists have discovered how to edit DNA to repair 'broken genes' to cure incurable diseases - and potentially extend human lifespan. Until now, it has not been possible to alter genes in the brain, heart, liver and eyes - the root of many debilitating illnesses. Since the cells in these vital organs tend not to divide, it is difficult to gain access to make changes. However, researchers at the Salk Institute claim to have landed on 'the holy grail of gene editing', which can delicately and smoothly cut through DNA. So far the technique, called HITI, has been used to successfully restore blindness in lab mice. Lead researcher Professor Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte insists that is nothing compared to the changes the technique could have in the decades to come. 'We are very excited by the technology we discovered because it's something that could not be done before,' Dr Belmonte said. 'For the first time, we can enter into cells that do not divide and modify the DNA at will. The possible applications of this discovery are vast.' News of the discovery comes a day after Chinese scientists successfully tested a similar DNA-modifying technique, known as CRISPR. To date, CRISPR has been the most effective method for dividing cells in large organs like the skin or the gut. |