Scientists have edited a gene that may reduce high cholesterol permanently
14 days ago
- #cholesterol
- #gene-therapy
- #CRISPR
- A new pilot study using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing shows promise in permanently lowering high cholesterol.
- The study involved 15 patients and resulted in a 50% reduction in LDL (bad cholesterol) and a 55% reduction in triglycerides.
- The treatment targets the ANGPTL3 gene, which regulates LDL and triglycerides, mimicking a naturally occurring protective mutation.
- Potential benefits include a one-time treatment for lifelong cholesterol control, reducing the need for daily medications.
- Early results are promising, but long-term safety and efficacy need further study through Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials.
- The treatment could address a significant unmet medical need, as many people struggle to control cholesterol with current therapies.
- Side effects were minimal, but long-term monitoring is planned to ensure safety.
- Experts caution that while exciting, patients should continue current cholesterol-lowering treatments until more data is available.