CRISPR gene editing makes stem cells 'invisible' to immune system

(University of California - San Francisco) UC San Francisco scientists have used the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing system to create the first pluripotent stem cells that are functionally 'invisible' to the immune system, a feat of biological engineering that, in laboratory studies, prevented rejection of stem cell transplants. Because these 'universal' stem cells can be manufactured more efficiently than stem cells tailor-made for each patient -- the individualized approach that dominated earlier efforts -- they bring the promise of regenerative medicine a step closer to reality.

https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-02/uoc--cge021519.php

Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - February 18, 2019 Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news