New Eye Disease Genetic Research Tool Unveiled


Scientists at the University of British Colombia have unveiled a new 'mini tool kit' today, that they claim will help to research and develop future treatments for genetic eye diseases. The toolbox of 'mini-promoters' comprises small sections of DNA that are able to mark cells and switch genes on and off to deliver therapeutic treatments.

A dedicated team of 64 researchers at the university are currently developing the toolkit of 27 new mini-promoters, following extensive human genome mapping.

Researchers hope that, following animal studies and successful clinical trials, the newly discovered mini-promoters can be used to alter gene expression patterns to improve eye function in patients with genetic eye diseases including retinitis pigmentosa and age related macular degeneration – the leading cause of blindness, worldwide.

31st August 2010

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