科学家发现修复受损基因的方法
Scientists have discovered how to edit DNA to repair 'broken genes' to cure incurable diseases - and potentially extend human lifespan.
科学家已经发现如何通过编辑DNA来修复“受损基因”，从而治愈绝症并有可能延长人类寿命。
Until now, it has not been possible to alter genes in the brain, heart, liver and eyes - the root of many debilitating illnesses.
Since the cells in these vital organs tend not to divide, it is difficult to gain access to make changes.
However, researchers at the Salk Institute claim to have landed on 'the holy grail of gene editing', which can delicately and smoothly cut through DNA.
So far the technique, called HITI, has been used to successfully restore blindness in lab mice.
Lead researcher Professor Juan Carlos Izpisua Belmonte insists that is nothing compared to the changes the technique could have in the decades to come.
'We are very excited by the technology we discovered because it's something that could not be done before,' Dr Belmonte said.