Possible Chromosomal Correction

There was a really interesting study published last month in Nature, the International weekly journal of science. Apparently researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical School have figured out a way to silence the extra chromosome that causes Down’s syndrome. They aren't sure yet exactly how this would affect individuals with the disorder, but are hoping the research could lead to ways to treat the health and/or cognitive problems associated with the chromosomal abnormality. This of course will raise a wealth of ethical issues when it comes to treating individuals with Down's syndrome, but it's exciting research when you think about how it could be applied to other genetic diseases and disorders. There are lots of different articles on the issue with all sorts of different angles and opinions (including this one from an NPR station out of Boston), but the original publication from Nature.com can be found here.