A new start up eGeneis, a life science company from Cambridge, MA is leveraging CRISPR gene editing technology to deliver safe and effective human transplant cells, tissues, and organs to the thousands of people who are in need of transplant organs and tissues. EGenesis, describes itself as a biotechnology company focused on using gene editing technologies like CRIPSR & CAS9 to transform animal organs and tissues into being compatible with human beings. The fundamental concept behind EGenesis, is using genetic editing tech to make xenotransplantation possible.
CRISPR Gene Editing & Xenotransplantation
Xenotransplantation as defined by the FDA involves the transplantation of non human cells,tissues,organs and is a field that while highly controlled and regulated is in extreme demand. The genetic editing that will make EGenesis’ xenotransplantation possible holds vast potential and has the possibility of saving and improving a significant number of people’s lives. It is estimated the organ shortages will kill approximately 22 people a day, who will die from lack of suitable organs and replacement tissues.
Genetically Modifying Pig Organs For Human Donors
Xenotransplantation ,prior advances in genetic editing tools & technology, was feasible but faced considerable barriers. Some of the barriers to xenotransplantation are rooted in two primary issues that it is hoped genetic editing will overcome: primarily t-cell and immunological rejection of organs from primates and pigs, as well as an incompatibility and issues with coagulation dysfunction.
While some challenges remain, our founding team confidently aspires to create a world where patients don’t have to die waiting tor an organ transplant,” said Luhan Yang, Ph.D., Chief Science Officer and Co-Founder with Harvard Medical School geneticist George Church,Ph.D. ”With this significant investment, we expect to leverage our powerful genome editing platform to create a pathway toward developing and delivering a sate and effective xenotransplantation solution tor patients in need. We hope to see xenotransplantation recognized as a viable resource in the medical community as soon as possible.”
To accomplish this goal, eGenesis plans on utilizing a CRISPR-based gene editing platform to deliver safe and effective human transplant-able cells, tissues and organs, which are grown in pigs. The eGenesis approach is still in its early stages, but includes genomic engineering pig cells, organ maturation and finally, successful organ transplantation.