Researchers at the National Cancer Centre Research Institute, Tokyo, and the Chiba University School of Medicine in Japan, have made a significant discovery which may help correct genetic disorders in the womb.
Scientists implanted an easily detectable gene into mouse embryos by injecting it into the tail veins of pregnant female mice. Although the implanted gene is not detectable till 14 months after birth, they remain active without posing any threat to the genetic inheritance of the future generations.
The technique would now be tried out on animals and later it could be used for correcting birth disorders in humans. However, prospects for treating congenital diseases is a long way off, warns Masaaki Terada, of the research team.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.