Single Gene-Editing Dose Cuts Cholesterol 62%
- Gene-editing drug shows promise in early trials
- 62% reduction in bad cholesterol observed in high doses
- No serious side effects reported, indicating safety
An innovative gene-editing therapy, VERVE-102, demonstrates potential in lowering bad cholesterol with just a single infusion, according to early results from a Phase I safety trial.
The interim findings, from a cohort of 35 patients published in the New England Journal of Medicine, indicate that the treatment is generally safe, with no severe adverse events noted, even at maximum doses. Minimal liver enzyme increases were observed, signaling mild liver effects.
A promising outcome from the trial shows that participants receiving the highest dose experienced a 62% drop in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels, averaging 78 mg per deciliter. If maintained for an extended period, such a reduction could significantly lower cardiovascular disease risk.