The real power of gene editing is being able to choose exactly where to edit a genetic disorder, as easily as correcting a tiny typo in a text.

With its 25 years of expertise, Cellectis was the first company to translate gene editing tools into potentially life-saving therapies. They invented the allogeneic approach (which is the transfer of cells from one individual to another). Cellectis’ technology, TALEN®, can make very precise edits, with limited to no off-target effects and we are learning more about it in this episode.

To do so, we are joined by Dr. Julien Valton, Vice President Gene Therapy at Cellectis.

Overview of Cellectis:

• Celebrating 25 years of innovation in gene editing.

Understanding TALEN Technology:

• Explanation of what TALEN stands for and how it works.

Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cells:

• Introduction to CAR T-cells and their role in gene editing with TALEN technology.

Recent Research and Innovations:

• Discussion on the new paper co-authored by Dr. Valton on using TALEN technology to edit hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells.

Implications and Future Directions:

• Potential therapeutic applications in the treatment of metabolic and neurological diseases.

Conclusion:

• Final thoughts from Dr. Valton on the future of gene editing and Cellectis’ role in advancing this field.

Stay tuned for the next new episode of DNA Today next Friday! New episodes are released every Friday. In the meantime, you can binge over 290 other episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, streaming on the website, or any other podcast player by searching, “DNA Today”. Episodes since 2021 are also recorded with video which you can watch on our YouTube channel, this includes some episodes recorded at NBC Universal Stamford Studios. 

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