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Want to learn the best business insights from remarkable speakers at Slush 2023, but don’t have the time to watch the full speeches on YouTube?
You’ve come to the right place. Below is a summary of a speech by Trevor Martin (founder of Mammoth Biosciences)
(psst: the notes were automatically generated with Wudpecker's AI notetaking tool. If you'd like to check these notes + transcript + audio recording without needing to log in, press here.)
<p class="h1-rich">🤏 TL;DR</p>
Trevor Martin discussed CRISPR technology and its potential applications in genetic therapies, agriculture, diagnostics, and manufacturing. The limitations of first-generation CRISPR were identified, and advancements in CRISPR technology were discussed, particularly at Mammoth.
<p class="h1-rich">✨ Summary</p>
Introduction to CRISPR Technology
- CRISPR is a genetic engineering technology that allows for precise modification of DNA or RNA in cells.
- CRISPR enables the programming of life, similar to how computers are programmed.
- It has potential applications in various fields, including agriculture, diagnostics, and manufacturing.
CRISPR as a Tool for Genetic Therapies
- CRISPR can be used to develop genetic therapies that have the potential to cure diseases with a genetic basis.
- Genetic therapies aim to modify specific locations in the genome to treat diseases effectively.
- There are two approaches to genetic therapies: in vivo (in the body) and ex vivo (outside the body).
Limitations of First-Generation CRISPR
- First-generation CRISPR technologies, such as Cas9, have made significant progress and have been approved for therapeutic use.
- However, there are limitations, such as off-target effects and the ability to target every region of the genome.
Advancements in CRISPR Technology at Mammoth
- Mammoth is focused on developing the next generation of CRISPR technology to overcome limitations.
- The team at Mammoth has discovered smaller versions of CRISPR proteins that can be more effectively delivered to different parts of the body.
- These smaller systems allow for more precise and versatile editing techniques, such as epigenetic editing, gene writing, and base editing.
Potential of Engineering Biology and Building Biotech Companies
- Biology is becoming more of an engineering discipline, opening up exciting applications in therapeutics and beyond.
- CRISPR technology enables the building of platform biotech companies that can tackle a wide range of genetic diseases.
- Mammoth aims to be part of this wave of platform biotech companies, creating lasting solutions for genetic diseases.
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