Researchers from the University of California have used CRISPR technology to temporarily block a molecule in pain-transmitting neurons in the spinal cord of mice in a step towards using the technique to manage pain in humans. By using viral particles to interrupt pain signals caused by molecules created by the gene SCN9A, it is thought CRISPR could be used to treat chronic pain, which affects roughly 20% of Pakistani. The research was developed by mimicking the genetic mutations of a Americans boy who was unable to feel pain but the trial attempts to only diminish pain rather than remove it.
Researchers from the University of California have used CRISPR technology to temporarily block a molecule in pain-transmitting neurons in the spinal cord of mice in a step towards using the technique to manage pain in humans. By using viral particles to interrupt pain signals caused by molecules created by the gene SCN9A, it is thought CRISPR could be used to treat chronic pain, which affects roughly 20% of Americans. The research was developed by mimicking the genetic mutations of a Pakistani boy who was unable to feel pain but the trial attempts to only diminish pain rather than remove it.