AAV-dCas9 Epigenetic Editing for CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder

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Grant Award Details

Grant Number:
DISC2-13417
Investigator(s):
Human Stem Cell Use:
Award Value:
$1,429,378
Status:
Active

Grant Application Details

Application Title:

AAV-dCas9 Epigenetic Editing for CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder

Public Abstract:
Research Objective

We propose a gene therapy for the treatment of a severe infantile epilepsy called CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder using CRISPR-mediated epigenetic editing

Impact

A transformative treatment for females affected by CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder in addition a platform for the approximately 38 other X-linked intellectual disabilities that predominately affect females

Major Proposed Activities

  • Validation of CRISPRe in CDD human neuronal cell models
  • Safety and Off-Target profile of CRISPRe in CDD human neuronal cell models
  • Rescue of behavioral and functional outcome measures in two mouse models of CDD following CRISPRe administration
  • Molecular and Histological Characterization following CRISPRe administration in two mouse models of CDD
  • Safety of CRISPRe in two mouse models of CDD
Statement of Benefit to California:
CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD) occurs in 1 of 40,000 live births meaning there are ten CDD patients born in California each year. CDD has a drastic impact on the quality of life for both the patient and caregiver. Over 43,000 people in California have an intellectual disability. A high number of causative genes for intellectual disabilities are found on the X chromosome. This grant will not only develop a treatment for CDD but may provide a roadmap to treat other X linked disorders.