Latest inventions in science and technology
BIRSA 101 Gene Therapy
- India has launched its first indigenous CRISPR-based gene therapy for Sickle Cell Disease, named BIRSA 101, marking a major milestone in affordable genomic medicine.
- The therapy is named “BIRSA 101”, dedicated to the tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda, whose 150th anniversary was recently observed.
- Developed by CSIR–Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology (IGIB)
- BIRSA 101 uses CRISPR technology like “precise genetic surgery” to edit defective genes inside the patient’s cells.
- It corrects the mutation responsible for producing sickle-shaped red blood cells, thereby enabling normal haemoglobin production.
- Once edited, the corrected stem cells are infused back into the patient, offering a potential one-time, and lifelong cure.
Key Features:
- Fully indigenous CRISPR platform (enFnCas9) engineered by IGIB.
- Low-cost alternative to global therapies costing crores.
- Developed under India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat push for medical self-reliance.
- Backed by a public–private partnership ensuring scalability, safety, and regulatory readiness.
