Adapted Crispr gene editing tool could treat incurable diseases, say scientists

New form of genetic engineering designed to boost gene activity could one day be used to overcome diseases such as diabetes and muscular dystrophy

Incurable diseases such as diabetes and muscular dystrophy could be treated in future using a new form of genetic engineering designed to boost gene activity, according to scientists.

The technique is an adapted version of the powerful gene editing tool called Crispr. While the original version of Crispr snips DNA in precise locations to delete faulty genes or over-write flaws in the genetic code, the modified form "turns up the volume" on selected genes.