In a groundbreaking scientific breakthrough, Japanese researchers have successfully removed the extra chromosome responsible for Down syndrome in human cells using CRISPR gene-editing technology. This world-first achievement marks a major step toward developing therapies that directly target the genetic root of the condition. Led by Dr. Ryotaro Hashizume, the team developed a technique called “trisomic rescue,” which uses highly specific CRISPR guides to locate and delete the third copy of chromosome 21. This is the genetic abnormality that causes Down syndrome, a condition that affects cognitive development and overall health due to the presence of an extra chromosome.
