Everand Logo

Welcome to Everand!

  • NPR

    FDA approves first gene-editing treatment for human illness

    The Food and Drug Administration approved two genetic treatments for sickle cell disease, including one that uses gene-editing. The approvals offer hope for patients and signal a new medical era.
    by Rob Stein Dec 08, 2023 5 minutes
    "I'm ecstatic. It's a blessing that they approved this therapy," said Victoria Gray, the first person in the U.S. to undergo CRISPR gene-editing for sickle cell, of the Food and Drug Administration's decision.

    In a landmark decision, the Food and Drug Administration Friday approved the first gene-editing treatment to alleviate human illness.

    The FDA approved two gene therapies for anyone 12 and older suffering from the most severe form of sickle cell disease, a brutal blood disorder that has long been neglected by medical research.

    The decisions are being hailed as milestones for treating sickle cell and for the rapidly advancing field of gene therapy, which is stirring excitement for treatment of many diseases.

    "Sickle cell disease is a rare, debilitating and life-threatening blood disorder with significant unmet need, and we are excited to advance the field especially for individuals whose lives have been severely disrupted by the disease by approving two cell-based gene therapies today," said Dr. Nicole Verdun, director of the

    You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

    More from NPR

    NPR3 min readCrime & Violence
    Justice Thomas Decries 'Nastiness' And 'Lies' Against Him
    The Supreme Court justice told attendees at a judicial conference that he and his wife have faced "nastiness" and "lies" over the last several years and decried Washington as a "hideous place."
    NPR4 min read
    Senate Passes FAA Reauthorization Bill, Sending Legislation To The House
    The Senate passed a bill designed to improve safety and customer service for air travelers, a day before the law governing the Federal Aviation Administration expires.
    NPR5 min read
    Why Writing By Hand Beats Typing For Thinking And Learning
    Researchers are learning that handwriting engages the brain in ways typing can't match, raising questions about the costs of ditching this age-old practice, especially for kids.

    Related Books & Audiobooks