INTERNATIONAL Researchers say they eliminated the extra chromosome in cells with Down syndrome

Japanese scientist have reportedly removed the extra chromosome that causes Down syndrome from both lab cells and the skin cells of individuals living with the condition. This announcement reignites the debate: is this a scientific breakthrough, an act of eugenics, or both?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:​

• Researchers in Japan used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to ‘cut’ the extra chromosome out of lab-grown cells and skin cells.
• CRISPR has been used to treat an infant with a potentially deadly genetic condition and could be used to improve the health of individuals with Down syndrome.
• Embryos with Down syndrome are often destroyed in labs, but could now be used in further CRISPR research — an ethical concern.

THE DETAILS:​

Japanese researchers from Mie University School of Medicine and Fujita Health University have genetically edited human cells with Down syndrome by removing the extra copy of the 21st chromosome. Down syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, occurs when the child is created with a third copy of the 21st chromosome.

Dr. Ryotaro Hashizume led a team of scientists in using the controversial CRISPR-Cas9 technology to remove the extra chromosome. CRISPR cuts and alters DNA sequences in living cells using a guide RNA to direct the Cas9 enzyme to a specific location on the genome — in this case, the extra copy of the 21st chromosome.

According to reports, after eliminating the extra chromosome, the cells reverted to two chromosomes and showed reduced cellular stress and improvements in energy function.

In the study, CRISPR was also used on the skin cells of individuals with Down syndrome, and researchers believe that they have taken a step towards future regenerative therapies to improve organ function in born individuals with the condition.

WHY IT MATTERS:​

Continued below.