Down syndrome genes ‘shut off’

Jul 19, 2013 |

For the first time, scientists have switched off a Down’s syndrome chromosome, raising hope for possible treatment of the genetic disorder characterised by cognitive impairment.

Scientists say the in vitro discovery opens new avenues for future chromosome therapy. Researchers at The University of Massac-husetts Medical School in US established that a naturally occurring X chromosome “off switch” can be rerouted to neutralise the extra chromosome responsible for trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome.

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