Prime editing: DNA tool could correct 89% of genetic defects

A new way of editing the code of life could correct 89% of the errors in DNA that cause disease, BBC News reports, citing US scientists.

The technology, called prime editing, has been described as a "genetic word processor" able to accurately re-write the genetic code.

It has been used to correct damaging mutations in the lab, including those that cause sickle cell anaemia.

The team at the Broad Institute say it is "very versatile and precise", but stress the research is only starting.

Prime editing is the latest advance in the field of gene editing, which is developing at an incredible pace.

Our DNA is the instruction manual for building and running our bodies. It is in nearly every one of our cells.

Being able to tweak DNA through gene editing is already transforming scientific research, promising to revolutionise medicine and asking deep moral and ethical questions after the creation of babies who were gene-edited to have protection from HIV.