Gene on/off? New tech lets scientists control genes like a light switch

Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine have developed a groundbreaking technology to address the crucial issue of maintaining therapeutic gene levels within a safe range in gene therapy. Their method uses tiny substances approved by the FDA to control the genes, offering a promising solution to the problems associated with current methods for gene regulation.

Maintaining the right level of gene activity is critical in therapy, as having too much or too little can cause problems. The new technology avoids triggering harmful immune responses and employs small molecules to interact with RNA, unlike older methods that utilize foreign substances.

With the ability to regulate gene expression more precisely and with fewer side effects, this breakthrough technology could revolutionize gene therapy, opening the door to safer and more effective treatments for a wide range of genetic disorders.