Scientists show proof-of-principal for silencing extra chromosome responsible for Down syndrome
Wednesday, July 17, 2013 - 13:30
in Health & Medicine
Scientists have established that a naturally occurring X chromosome "off switch" can be rerouted to neutralize the extra chromosome responsible for trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome, a genetic disorder characterized by cognitive impairment. The discovery provides the first evidence that the underlying genetic defect responsible for Down syndrome can be suppressed in cells in culture.