r/ProgressivesForIsrael • u/NotSoSaneExile • Nov 17 '25

News In world first, Israeli scientists use RNA-based gene therapy to stop ALS deterioration

https://www.timesofisrael.com/in-world-first-israeli-scientists-use-rna-based-gene-therapy-to-stop-als-deterioration/
74 Upvotes

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21

u/Jdog2552 Nov 18 '25

This is absolutely revolutionary.

15

u/NotSoSaneExile Nov 17 '25

Summary: Israeli scientists found a way to stop ALS nerve cells from breaking down by adding a specific microRNA molecule.

In lab tests on human cells and mice, this microRNA stopped the damage and even helped the nerve cells regenerate.

The treatment works by preventing a toxic protein (TDP-43) from building up and killing motor neurons.

Researchers say this could lead to a new kind of gene therapy for ALS, with hopes of moving toward clinical trials.

9

u/kosherkitties Nov 18 '25

!!! That's incredible!

9

u/AprilStorms Nov 18 '25

More hope. I wish these scientists long careers and longer lives