Among the greatest heartbreaks in the field of gene transfer have been problems encountered in trials involving a rare, hereditary immune disorder, X-SCID (known popularly as “Bubble Boy” syndrome). As is well known, a team of researchers based in Paris– and then in London– successfully reversed severe immunodeficiencies in 20 or so children using retroviral… Continue reading Yellow Light on Gene Transfer Studies
Tag: RAC
Centralized Revue
In the most recent issue of Molecular Therapy, U Penn researcher Hildegrund Ertl provides a strong and eloquent defense of the Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RAC). RAC was initially formed to evaluate the safety of studies involving recombinant DNA. In the last decade, however, its most visible function has been to provide advise to researchers… Continue reading Centralized Revue
From Bench to Ringside: The Presidential Debate
Last night, Obama and McCain confronted each other in the final Presidential debate. A flagging economy and two wars have left little room in the two campaigns for discussion of science, policy, and human research. Yet last night’s debate touched on two themes: embryonic stem cell (hES) research, and biomedical research funding. Obama accused McCain… Continue reading From Bench to Ringside: The Presidential Debate