April 29, 2021
First, Gavriel’s muscles got weaker. Then, he lost the ability to walk. From there, things will only get worse. The cause is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a genetic disorder with no cure. But that might soon change. Using CRISPR, a state-of-the-art gene-editing tool, SickKids scientists were able to correct the disease-causing mutation in mice. The result? Improved muscle strength and function—and no signs of paralysis. Now, they’re refining their approach, so they can take this treatment out of the lab and into the world.
Scientific Contributors
- Dr. Ronni Cohn, MD, PhD
- Dr. Zhenya Ivakine, PhD
- Dr. Daria Wojtal, PhD
- Dr. Dwi U. Kemaladewi, PhD
- Eleonora Maino
Generous Donors
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Research- Hyatt Family Foundation
- Robert McArthur
- Shirley McArthur
- Jesse’s Journey -The Foundation for Gene and Cell Therapy
Thank you to all our anonymous, monthly, and unrestricted giving donors who support the highest priority needs at SickKids, including breakthrough research like this.
Relevant Links or Learn More
Read more about Dr. Ronald (Ronni) Cohn
Read how genome-editing is giving families new hope
Read why Gavriel Rosenfeld’s family established the Duchenne Research Fund
Musical Credits
“CLOCKS” Words and Music by GUY RUPERT BERRYMAN, JONATHAN MARK BUCKLAND, WILLIAM CHAMPION, CHRISTOPHER ANTHONY JOHN MARTIN (c) UNIVERSAL MUSIC PUBLISHING CANADA ON BEHALF OF UNIVERSAL MUSIC PUBLISHING MGB LTD. (SOCAN)
“Clocks” Performed by Coldplay. Courtesy of Parlophone Records Ltd. By arrangement with Warner Music Group Film & TV Licensing.
Contact Us: podcast@sickkidsfoundation.com
About the Host: Hannah Bank
As a SickKids Foundation writer, Hannah works closely with world-renowned SickKids scientists, physicians, and researchers, turning dense medical jargon into engaging content about the latest research and treatments for kids. She’s inspired by the hope and perseverance of young patients and their families, a fantastic team of colleagues, and her three young girls at home.
