Work

India's indigenous CRISPR-based gene-editing therapy for sickle cell disease: innovation to equitable implementation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In November 2025, the Government of India launched BIRSA 101 (Bhagwan Birsa Munda), the country's first indigenous CRISPR-based gene-editing therapy for sickle cell disease (SCD), with the aim of a one-time curative approach.1 It was developed by CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), with technology transfer to the Serum Institute of India for future clinical development and large-scale manufacturing.2 This is an important milestone for a country with one of the highest burden of SCD.

Source: The Lancet Regional Health - Southeast Asia

DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2026.100883

Authors: Sarbasree Bhattacharjee, Jarina Begum

Institution: Manipal Academy of Higher Education

Language: English

Topic: Hemoglobinopathies and Related Disorders

Subfield: Genetics (clinical)

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,250