“It Hurts So Much That Treatment is Difficult”… Is the Solution to Gout in Ancient Genes?
Gout, a notoriously painful form of arthritis, is caused by the buildup of sharp crystals in the joints, leading to swelling and severe pain. While treatments exist, they aren’t universally effective and can cause significant side effects in some patients. Now,a novel approach utilizing gene editing technology offers a potential breakthrough,stemming from the reactivation of genes lost to humans millions of years ago.
A study published in Scientific Reports details how researchers employed CRISPR gene-editing technology – frequently enough referred to as “molecular scissors” – to restore a lost gene, ultimately lowering levels of uric acid, the root cause of gout and othre related health issues.
researchers at Georgia State University in the United States utilized CRISPR-Cas9 to insert a reconstructed ancient uricase gene into human liver cells. Uricase is an enzyme that breaks down uric acid, a natural byproduct in the blood.When uric acid levels become excessive, it can crystallize in joints and kidneys, leading to gout, kidney stones, and other complications.
Interestingly,humans and other great apes lost the uricase gene approximately 20 to 29 million years ago. Some scientists theorize this loss wasn’t accidental, suggesting high uric acid levels may have aided early primates in converting fruit sugar into fat.
The study’s results were promising. Researchers observed reduced uric acid levels and a suppression of fat accumulation caused by fructose within the liver cells. To test the gene’s functionality in a more complex environment, the experiments were expanded to 3D liver spheroids, and the uricase gene continued to demonstrate its ability to lower uric acid levels.
“Without uricase, humans become vulnerable,” the researchers explained. “By reactivating uricase in human liver cells, we lowered uric acid levels and prevented cells from converting excess fructose into triglycerides (fat that accumulates in the liver).”
Further analysis revealed the uricase migrated to the peroxisome, a cellular compartment where it normally functions, indicating its potential for safe operation not only in isolated cells but also within living systems.
The implications of this research extend beyond simply treating gout. Hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels) has been linked to a range of modern health problems.Studies indicate that between 25% and 50% of individuals with high blood pressure also have high uric acid levels, a figure that rises to 90% in newly diagnosed hypertension patients.
“Hyperuricemia is a dangerous disease,” the researchers stated, emphasizing that “lowering uric acid levels has the potential to prevent several diseases at the same time.” This suggests a potential preventative approach to a variety of health concerns, not just the management of gout symptoms.
