Back to the Past: The Role of CRIPSR_Cas9 in Sickle Cell Disease
Sutton, Opal
Sutton, Opal
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Abstract
This informative infographic breaks down the FDA approved therapeutic process of the usage of CRIPSR-Cas9 for the treatment of sickle cell disease and aims to provide a better understanding of the usage of modern technologies for sickle cell disease. The round, flexible, disc-like shape of red blood cells is important for the flow of oxygen and carbon dioxide throughout the body. Within these blood cells is hemoglobin, a protein that aids in the delivery of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Together, this whole structure is imperative for the functions of vital areas such as organs and tissues. However, a mutation within the hemoglobin ?? gene of adult hemoglobin (HbA) can disrupt and change the structure of red blood cells, turning them from round, oxygenated cells to sickled, sticky shapes that restricts oxygen flow. With a name derived from its shape, sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic, progressive disease that causes a chain reaction of effects starting within the blood stream. This blood disease is diagnosed among thousands of patients and can bring about symptoms that reduce quality of life and even life expectancy. With the help of modern technologies, CRISPR-Cas9 can target a specific area within a gene, such as BCL11A erythroid enhancer or the HBG promoter, to help reinduce the production of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) and bring normal disc-like blood cells back into the blood stream. There are many treatments for SCD, but none of them dive into the root problem of this disease. In this process, called Casgevy, CRISPR-Cas9 is able to show promising treatment for sickle cell disease as well other blood related diseases.
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Date
1/1/2026
Student Status
Junior (Graduating in 2027)
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Poster
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Biological Science
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College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
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Clinical Science