Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Non-coding DNA changes genitals in male mice from testes to ovaries

I've talked about CRISPR before.. new technique for gene editing.  Many talk about how even if you were able to change your genes (or chromosomes), it may flip hormones but you would still have the same genitals (still would be a great medical breakthrough).  Article I just found talks about Enh13 (Enhancer 13) where they were able to take male born mice, and by eliminating a non-gene section of DNA make the male mice grow ovaries.  Granted that doesn't mean penises turned into vaginas, but it's a step.  Also note, this is a non-gene change which if I'm reading that right should mean it shouldn't have side effects that altering genes can bring.  I'm also assuming this is permanent, unless they have a technique like with that latest CRISPR techniques where they can apply a temporary 6-month change to test out their edit for side effects before making it permanent.

https://www.crick.ac.uk/news/2018-06-14-non-coding-dna-changes-the-genitals-youre-born-with

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