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Elizabet PerrishThe first genetically modified human
Date of Birth: .
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Elizabeth Parrish: The First Genetically Modified Human
- Groundbreaking Gene Therapy
- Telomere Lengthening Success
- Continued Reversal of Aging
- Unanswered Questions and the Road Ahead
Elizabeth Parrish: The First Genetically Modified Human
Elizabeth Parrish, CEO of biotechnology company BioViva USA Inc., became the first genetically modified woman in 2015. Due to an accelerated aging process, Parrish traveled to Colombia to undergo two gene therapies developed by her company.
Groundbreaking Gene Therapy
The first therapy involved injections into Parrish's legs to prevent age-related muscle loss. The second targeted the shortening of telomeres, the ends of chromosomes that decrease in length as we age, increasing the risk of cancer, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of dementia.
Telomere Lengthening Success
Before the therapy in 2015, Parrish's telomere length was 6710 base pairs, equivalent to that of a 60-year-old. After gene therapy in March 2016, her telomere length increased to 7330 base pairs, indicating a cellular rejuvenation of 20 years.
Continued Reversal of Aging
In 2018, Parrish underwent follow-up examinations. Her muscle mass had increased, while intramuscular fat decreased. These improvements persisted three years after therapy. Notably, her telomere length had further increased to 8120 base pairs, suggesting that not only had her cells stopped aging but had also reversed it by an additional 10 years.
Unanswered Questions and the Road Ahead
While Parrish remains hopeful for positive outcomes, questions remain regarding the long-term effects of these modifications and whether telomere lengthening extends to other cell types besides lymphocytes. She aims to develop gene-based treatments to maintain people's health before they become patients.
