A method to edit genes in the guts of mice and it’s possible to use it to treat bone-weak conditions like osteoporosis in humans

Researchers have developed a method to directly edit the genes of specific bacteria in the guts of live mice, something that has previously been difficult to accomplish due to the complexity of this environment. The tool was able to edit over ninety percent of an E. coli strain in mice guts with other work showing it could be used to edit genes in other strains. With further research, it is hoped that this technique can be adapted to work in humans.

They are developing mouse models that will measure the impact of specific genes on their health.

During breastfeeding bones are stripped of calcium, while levels of oestrogen — which normally helps keep them healthy — drop off precipitously. The stress on the bones has proved to be a mystery, they don’t break down at this time. Now, a team has identified a hormone produced in lactating mice that promotes the build up of bones, keeping them strong during milk production. Injecting this hormone into injured mice helped their bones heal faster, and the team hopes that their finding could ultimately help treat bone-weakening conditions like osteoporosis in humans.

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