Haoyang has Menkes Syndrome, a genetic disorder that impacts how copper — which is crucial for brain and nervous system development — is processed in the body. Most online documents on Menkes Syndrome were in English, but undeterred Xu used translation software to understand them, before setting up a home lab in his father’s gym. Menkes Syndrome is more prevalent in boys than girls, and it is estimated one in 100,000 babies are born with the disease globally according to organisation Rare Diseases. Gene therapyHis work has led to interest from VectorBuilder, an international biotech company, which is now launching gene therapy research with Xu into Menkes syndrome, along with another Chinese group called Lantu. Even if we fail, I want my son to have hope.”ADVERTISEMENTSubscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer November 24, 2021 18:57 UTC