Editing genes to treat metabolic diseases before and after birth

Postnatal and Prenatal Therapeutic Base Editing for Metabolic Diseases

NIH-funded research Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10896255

This study is exploring new ways to use gene editing to help people with metabolic diseases, both before they are born and after, by fixing harmful genes with a special technology called CRISPR.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10896255 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative gene editing techniques to treat metabolic diseases both before and after birth. Using advanced CRISPR technology, the team aims to deliver precise genetic modifications to patients, potentially correcting harmful mutations that lead to these diseases. The approach includes both in vivo editing, which targets cells within the body, and in utero editing, which could prevent genetic disorders from manifesting in newborns. By utilizing adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors for delivery, the research seeks to overcome previous challenges in effectively administering gene therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with known genetic metabolic disorders, as well as pregnant women whose fetuses may be at risk for such conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with metabolic diseases that are not caused by genetic mutations or those who are not pregnant may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking treatments that prevent or significantly reduce the impact of metabolic diseases in affected individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While gene editing has shown promise in treating certain conditions, this specific approach of in utero editing for metabolic diseases is still largely untested and represents a novel frontier in the field.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.