Michigan Medicine Experts Warn Of Permanent Gene Editing Risks

A single gene editing treatment could someday control your cholesterol for decades and replace daily pills. University of Michigan cardiologists Eric Smith and Venkatesh Murthy outlined these genomic therapies in JAMA Internal Medicine on November third, twenty twenty-six. Traditional drugs can be stopped if side effects show up, but permanent genetic changes offer no such flexibility. These treatments target somatic cells instead of reproductive cells, meaning edits are not passed to future generations. More than six thousand rare genetic disorders have been identified, though only a fraction have treatable targets. Delivering instructions often relies on modified viruses that trigger immune responses, which can make repeat treatments impossible if benefits fade. The researchers warn that a rare side effect could harm countless patients when treatments are rolled out to millions. Scientists must evaluate five factors including disease severity, existing treatments, and long-term monitoring before millions receive these therapies. Clinical trials track small groups for limited periods, so rare complications could take years to emerge.