#ThroughTheGenes is a patient-led podcast that explores the risks, benefits, and limitations of cell and gene-based therapies for sickle cell disease. Hosted by the sickle sisters - Wunmi Bakare and Christelle Salomon, with special guest, Dima Hendricks -the show offers firsthand accounts from patients, caregivers, and providers who have witnessed the effects of transformative therapies. Supported by Beam Therapeutics, Synthego,, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and Kamau Therapeutics, Season 2 of th ...
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Synthego Podcasts
Welcome to the CRISPR revolution. Take a break and join us as we guide conversations with an expert CRISPR cast about this cutting-edge science.
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What Happens To The Body In Gene Therapy? Part 2
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48:13To conclude our discussion on the topic "What Happens To The Body In Gene Therapy", our hosts - Wunmi Bakare and Christelle Salomon - sat down with Dr. Elizabeth Krieger, who is a pediatric hematologist-oncologist specializing in bone marrow transplant and cellular therapies. Discover why chemotherapy is carried out for these therapies, the side ef…
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What Happens To The Body In Gene Therapy? Part 1
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38:15In this episode of #ThroughTheGenes, we delve into the transformative role of fetal hemoglobin in treating sickle cell disease. Join hosts - Wunmi Bakare and Christelle Salomon - as they explore groundbreaking gene therapy advancements with Dr. Matt Porteous, Co-founder of Kamau Therapeutics. Discover how genome editing techniques are being used to…
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The Journey To Transformative Therapy - Maintaining Eligibility
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42:13In this episode of Through the Genes, we had Pediatric Hematologist-Oncologist, Dr. Mark Walters with us. The hosts discussed the topic, The Journey to Transformative Therapy - Maintaining Eligibility.This is an episode for anyone who is interested in how a sickle cell patient maintain their health so they are a perfect candidate for cell and gene …
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Patient Experiences with Experimental Treatments - The Triumphs & Trials
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48:33In this episode of Through the Genes, hosts Wunmi Bakare, Dima Hendricks, and Christelle Salomon engage in a heartfelt discussion about their personal journeys with sickle cell disease and the transformative therapies they have explored. They share their motivations for seeking experimental treatments, the emotional and physical challenges they fac…
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Bonus Episode: Visible & Invisible Disabilities and How They Impact Us
1:08:53
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1:08:53In this episode of Through the Genes, host Wunmi Bakare engages with guests Seonni and Vanesha from the Mind the Gap podcast to discuss the complexities of visible and invisible disabilities, personal health journeys, and the importance of advocacy within the South Asian community. The conversation explores their experiences with health diagnoses, …
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Bonus Episode: Curative Therapies Beyond the Borders
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40:04Through the Genes Podcast | Bonus Episode: Curative Therapies Beyond the Borders In this episode of #ThroughTheGenes, the hosts of the Let's Talk about Sickle Cell Podcast, Jenica Leah and Maya Bloomberg discuss the critical topic of sickle cell disease, focusing on advocacy, treatment options, and the disparities in healthcare systems between the …
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In Season 2, we go deeper—confronting ethical dilemmas, highlighting critical clinical insights, and sharing unfiltered patient experiences that matter most to the sickle cell community. This season empowers warriors, caregivers, and providers with knowledge to navigate curative therapies with clarity and confidence. We also introduce our newest si…
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Episode 8 - Bridging Science and Stories: Kira Dineen on DNA and Sickle Cell”
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42:18In this episode of #ThroughTheGenes, we are joined by Kira Dineen, host of the award-winning podcast, DNA Today. Kira brings her expertise in genetics to the conversation as we explore the intersection of DNA, gene therapies, and sickle cell disease. Together, we discuss how science is advancing treatment options and how storytelling can amplify th…
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In this episode of #ThroughTheGenes, we’re excited to welcome back Dr. Staci Martin as she puts Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) into practice. Dr. Martin provides an in-depth exploration of mental health challenges specific to individuals with sickle cell disease, especially those undergoing curative therapy.…
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Episode 6: The Mental Health Perspective w/ Staci Martin
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44:10Dr. Staci Martin joins us for a conversation that explores various aspects of mental health and self-care for individuals with sickle cell disease, particularly those undergoing the curative therapy process. The chapters cover topics such as common mental health issues, preparing for curative therapy, identity crisis and self-discovery, developing …
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Episode 5: The Clinical Perspective w/Genesis Jones and Wynona Coles
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46:10This episode concludes part two of the interview with Genesis Jones. She shares her experience with post-transplant complications, specifically hemolytic anemia, and the treatments she has undergone. She discusses the challenges of managing chronic pain and the impact it has on her mental health. Later in the episode, Wunmi and Dima interview Wynon…
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Episode 4: Transplant vs. Gene Therapy w/Caterina Minniti and Genesis Jones
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51:56In this conversation, Dr. Caterina Minniti discusses curative therapies for sickle cell disease, focusing on gene therapy. She explains the process of preparing for gene therapy, including the discontinuation of hydroxyurea and the use of blood transfusions. Dr. Minniti also discusses the ideal patient for gene therapy, the timeline for the prepara…
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Episode 3: The Caregiver Perspective w/ Amanda Olaghere
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51:37Welcome to episode 3 of #ThroughTheGenes. Amanda Olaghere shares her experience as the caregiver to her husband, Jimi, who participated in a gene therapy clinical trial for sickle cell disease. Before the trial, their lives were filled with constant hospital visits and emergency room visits due to Jimi's pain crises. The decision to participate in …
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Episode 2: The Patient Perspective w/ Jimi Olaghere
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50:37Welcome to Episode 2 of #ThroughTheGenes. In this episode, we hear from Jimi Olaghere a patient who successfully undergone a curative therapy. #ThroughTheGenes provides an in-depth look at the lived experiences of patients who have participated in the curative process, sharing their highs, lows, and everything in between. This series is designe…
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Episode 1: History of Sickle Cell Research w/ Vence Bonham Jr., JD, & Dr. Matthew Hsieh
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46:38Welcome to Episode 1 of #ThroughTheGenes, a show that highlights the risks, benefits, and limitations of cell and gene-based therapies as a curative option for sickle cell disease. In this inaugural episode, we delve into the history of sickle cell research with esteemed guests Vence Bonham Jr., JD, and Dr. Matthew Hsieh.#ThroughTheGenes provides a…
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Premiering June 19, 2024 (World Sickle Cell Day), the #ThroughTheGenes is an informative podcast series highlighting the risks, benefits, and limitations of gene-based therapies as a curative option for sickle cell disease. The show is hosted by sickle sisters, Wunmi Bakare and Dima Hendricks, taking you behind the lived experience of patients who …
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Imran House and Junyun Lai Discuss CRISPR Screening in Immuno-Oncology
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26:06Imran House, Ph.D. and Junyun Lai Ph.D. are Senior Scientists at the biotech start-up, oNKo-Innate in Melbourne, Australia that focuses on developing immuno-oncology therapies. In this episode, they discussed what they do at oNKo-innate, their career transitions from leaving academics to entering the biotech industry, and how CRISPR is impacting ca…
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Mark DeWitt and Don Kohn Discuss Their ex vivo CRISPR-based Therapy to Cure Sickle Cell Anemia
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33:24Dr. Mark DeWitt Ph.D., Associate Director at Mammoth Biosciences, and Dr. Don Kohn M.D., distinguished professor and Director of the UCLA Human Gene and Cell Therapy Program and CIRM grantee sat down with us to discuss their latest clinical trials to cure sickle cell anemia, how synthetic guides accelerated their journey from the bench to the clini…
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Dina Simkin Breaks Down Epilepsy Cell Modeling
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27:24Dina Simkin, Professor of Neurology at Northwestern University, joins us in this episode of CRISPR Cuts. Dr. Simkin talks about her path to becoming a researcher, art, and the importance of patient and isogenic iPSC models to study genetically linked forms of epilepsies.By Synthego
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Sunil Sharma and Raffaella Soldi Talk CRISPR For Unbiased Drug Screening for Rare Pediatric Cancers
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24:43Dr. Sunil Sharma and Dr. Raffaella Soldi of the Translational Genomics Research Institute chat about using CRISPR arrayed screens to identify novel drug targets for Ewing's Sarcoma, outlooks for the future of cancer therapies, and the Arizona heat.By Synthego
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Stephanie Cherqui Discusses Clinical Development of CRISPR Therapies for Rare Diseases
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20:27Professor Stephanie Cherqui, UCSD, has worked on the development of cell therapies for two rare genetic diseases, cystinosis and Friedreich’s ataxia. In this interview, Dr. Cherqui chats about her experience working on rare diseases, developing a CRISPR-edited therapy for Friedreich's ataxia, navigating regulatory challenges in cell and gene therap…
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Christian Groendahl On Pioneering a CRISPR-based Microbial Gene Therapy
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29:11Tune in to hear Christian Groendahl, CEO of SNIPR Biome, talk about CRISPR editing in prokaryotes, their novel E. coli-targeting CRISPR therapy trials, and his experiences and vision leading a start up.By Synthego
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Bryan Dechairo Envisions an Accessible Future for CRISPR Diagnostics
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35:29In this episode, Bryan Dechairo, CEO of Sherlock Biosciences, talks about the impact of technology advances in the field of CRISPR diagnostics, his experiences leading Sherlock Biosciences, and his team’s mission of accessibility.By Synthego
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Ayal Hendel Talks About CRISPR in Bubble Boy Disease
35:46
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35:46Dr. Ayal Hendel, a genome-editing pioneer and group leader at Bar Ilan University in Israel, was one of the first researchers to use modified synthetic sgRNA to edit primary cells with CRISPR. In this episode, Dr. Hendel shares his perspectives on the recent CRISPR advancements and his work on the bubble boy disease.…
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Jimi Olaghere Opens up About His Sickle Cell Disease and CRISPR Trial
39:59
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39:59Jimi has dealt with sickle cell disease, a genetic disorder with serious implications, his entire life. Undergoing a CRISPR gene editing trial turned his hope for a cure into reality with promising results from the early phases. Tune in to learn about Jimi's journey in this episode.By Synthego
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TJ Cradick Speaks About Their HIV CRISPR Therapy in Trials
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23:40TJ Cradick, Chief Scientific Officer at Excision Bio, discusses their CRISPR HIV therapy that recently proceeded into clinical trials in this episode and their ongoing work on other viral diseases.By Synthego
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Bryce Olson Relays His Experience on Personalized Therapies for Cancer Patients
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42:37
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42:37After being diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer, Bryce Olson quickly learned the science behind it and has leveraged NGS to understand his tumor genomics and find opportunities in personalized therapies. Hear the patient perspective for the first time on our podcast through Bryce's narration of his experience and pursuit of next generation ce…
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Neville Sanjana Discusses Ways to Enhance CRISPR-Cas13 Knockdown in Human Cells
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32:52In this collaboration episode with NEB, we interview Dr. Neville Sanjana, a core faculty member at the New York Genome Center, about his recent publication in which chemically modified guide RNAs were used to enhance CRISPR-Cas13 knockdown in human cells.By Synthego
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Kiana Aran Chats About her Nature Award and New Non-Profit
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41:09In this episode, we chat with Dr. Kiana Aran, the CSO of Cardea Bio and associate professor at Keck Graduate Institute, who recently won the Nature Research Award for Inspiring Women in Science. Dr. Aran talks about her experience being a nominee and award winner, her early days and scientific journey, and the launch of her new non-profit, Aran Neb…
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6 Women CRISPR Leaders Get Candid About Their Journeys to the Top
1:02:44
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1:02:44We chatted with six female leaders in the CRISPR—Alison van Eenennaam, Ph.D., Kiana Aran, Christina Trojel-Hansen, Ph.D., Laura Lambert, Ph.D., Elena Miñones Moyano, Ph.D., and Samantha Maragh, Ph.D.— about their professional journeys. Tune in to this episode for a candid and honest discussion on a broad range of topics, including their experiences…
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Jesse Boehm Discusses Tackling Rare Cancers Using CRISPR
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30:35In this CRISPR Cuts episode, Dr. Jesse Boehm, the Chief Scientific Officer of the Break Through Cancer Foundation and principal investigator at the Broad Institute, talks about his work on rare cancers. He also covers how CRISPR technology is transforming cancer research.By Synthego
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NIH Scientists Discuss the iNDI Project for Alzheimer's Disease Modeling
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37:14
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37:14The Inducible Pluripotent Stem Cell Neurodegeneration Initiative (iNDI), an NIH effort, aims to standardize disease models for Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Hear the principal contributors, Dr. Michael E. Ward and Dr. Mark R. Cookson, scientists at the NIH, talk about the inception of the iNDI project, the challenges and opportunities, and the…
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Joe Miano Talks About Prime Editing in Mice
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19:41Prime editing is a new genome engineering tool that emerged just a couple of years back. Right from the get-go, this technology made waves as a potential alternative to CRISPR. Now, the first comparative study in mice is out. Dr. Joe Miano, Professor at the Augusta University in Georgia, talks about their collaborative work comparing traditional CR…
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IGI Researchers Are Using CRISPR to Reduce Cyanide in Cassava
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26:30Did you know cassava can cause cyanide poisoning if it is not processed correctly and consumed with a protein-poor diet? In this episode, we chat with IGI researchers, Jess Lyons and Michael Gomez about their work on using CRISPR to reduce cyanide in cassava and improve its food safety.By Synthego
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Kevin Davies Chats About His Latest Book "Editing Humanity"
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32:13Kevin Davies, the executive editor of The CRISPR Journal, has closely watched the genetics space evolve over the last decades. His expertise and experience were the perfect foundation for his latest book "Editing Humanity: The CRISPR Revolution and the New Era of Genome Editing." In this episode, Kevin discusses his motivation for the book, along w…
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Michael Friend Advocates For Diversity in CRISPR
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18:52In this episode, Michael Friend, CEO of Minority Coalition for Precision Medicine, discusses the lack of diversity in genome editing field and covers potential solutions for ensuring an inclusive future, particularly for black scientists.By Synthego
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CRISPR Forecast 2021 with Paul Dabrowski and Robert Deans
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17:49In this episode, Paul Dabrowski, CEO of Synthego, and Robert Deans, CSO of Synthego, discuss the CRISPR silver linings of 2020 and predict the directions and milestones for gene editing in 2021.By Synthego
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The COVID-19 pandemic is a unique situation for lab scientists, many of whose work has come to a standstill. Hamid Ghanadaan, CEO of Linus, discusses the impact of COVID-19 on science and the next steps for scientists, based on their survey of >1000 scientists.By Synthego
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Ryan Pawell Talks About Indee Labs’ CRISPR Delivery Technology for Affordable Immunotherapies
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12:59The mission of Indee Labs, a Berkeley biotech, is to deliver CRISPR reagents into cells using microfluidics for developing affordable cell and gene therapies in the future. We interviewed Ryan Pawell, Founder and CEO of Indee Labs, about the concept of using microfluidics for CRISPR delivery, their mission and ongoing projects, and the convergence …
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Making of a CRISPR Film: Behind the Scenes with Producers of Human Nature
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37:33What is the process to make a science film? In this episode, Sarah Goodwin and Elliot Kirschner, producers of Human Nature, a documentary on CRISPR, offer glimpses into making of the film.By Synthego
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Leading St. Jude's Genome Engineering Capabilities: A Chat with Shondra Miller
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10:13Shondra Miller shares her experience of starting a shared genome engineering resource at the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Learn more about her research projects and her views on the past, present, and future of the genome editing field in this podcast episode.By Synthego
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The Potential of CRISPR Editing in Stem Cells: An Interview with Bill Skarnes
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13:06Dr. Bill Skarnes, Professor at The Jackson Laboratory, chats about how CRISPR edited stem cells are becoming a gold standard to study gene function and disease modeling.By Synthego
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CRISPR in Fungi: An Interview with Rebecca Shapiro
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18:07Rebecca Shapiro, Assistant Professor at the University of Guelph, talks about CRISPR genome editing in fungal pathogens to understand their disease-causing mechanism. Her lab also works on gene drives in fungi for studying large scale genetic interactions and developing ways for treating fungal biofilms.…
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Paul Dabrowski Gets Candid About the Past, Present, and Future of Synthego
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22:15In this interview, Paul Dabrowski, CEO of Synthego, talks about how Synthego got started, his mantra behind leading the company, and future directions. He also offers insights into Synthego’s unique capabilities—the powerful combination of engineering and biology that enable scaling.By Synthego
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Dana Foss is Solving the CRISPR Delivery Problem to Advance Therapeutics
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16:15CRISPR has great potential in therapeutics, but CRISPR delivery in vivo remains a challenge. Researcher Dana Foss discusses her lab’s novel approach for specific delivery of CRISPR components in cells and tissues.By Synthego
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SHERLOCK Founders Crack the Case of CRISPR Diagnostics
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21:04CRISPR is going beyond gene editing into a new area: diagnostics. Omar Abudayyeh and Jonathan Gootenberg, co-founders of SHERLOCK Biosciences, talk about the present advances and future of CRISPR diagnostics.By Synthego
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Kiana Aran Chats About Her New Biosensor: CRISPR-Chip
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18:58Kiana Aran, a biomedical engineering expert, talks about her research on CRISPR-Chip, a new biosensor that combines CRISPR & electronics to detect specific genes in genomic DNA.By Synthego
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How the Innovative Genomics Institute is Helping People Understand CRISPR
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23:32Megan Hochstrasser, Science Communications Manager at the Innovative Genomics Institute, talks about the importance of CRISPR science communication and the ongoing efforts at IGI to help people understand this genome engineering tool.By Synthego
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Improving Targeted Delivery to Enhance Personalized Medicine
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27:57Andre Watson, CEO of Ligandal, talks about how his company is improving the payload delivery of gene therapy, making it more accurate and efficient, to make new gene therapy a reality for the public.By Synthego
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Alex Philippidis Reviews Trends in Biopharma & Biotech Market
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27:54Biotech and biopharma companies are in a phase of accelerated growth. Alex Philippidis, a science journalist at Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News discusses the changing face of big pharma, biotech, and CRISPR gene editing industries, as they raise more money and the world changes around them.By Synthego
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