How can innovative science lead to potential cures for people living with rare diseases across the globe? Neil deGrasse Tyson and comedian Chuck Nice learn about the science of gene therapy and its applications with Gaurav Shah, CEO, Rocket Pharma.

Learn how gene therapy works, tropism, and how rare diseases without a cure could potentially be history through advancements in science. We talk about how Gaurav’s interest in music helped his approach to science. Plus, we break down how they identify which genes and conditions to target and which viruses they use to deliver the new genetic material.

Why invest in seeking to cure rare diseases? Is having a rare disease itself rare? Learn about diseases they are targeting for gene therapy like Fanconi Anemia, LAD-I, Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency, and Danon Disease. Can gene therapy tackle chronic disease? How do scientists pick which genes to target?

What is the morality of gene editing in the future which could change the DNA of an entire individual? We discuss the implications and the ethics of different forms of gene therapy. Find out about the FDA’s role in approving this new medicine for the public and its risks.

Thanks to our Patrons Ernesto Rodriguez, James Lewandowski, Juan Cornejo, Shane, Hayden Christensen, jacob vine, and Calina Lungu for supporting us this week.

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Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up!

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00:00 - Introduction: Rocket Pharma
2:50 - The Intersection of Science & Art
6:28 - Gene Therapy 101
12:35 - Using Viruses for Medicine
16:34 - Treating Rare Diseases
21:44 - What Diseases is Gene Therapy Targeting?
27:06 - Ethics & Disability: What is Normal?
34:26 - Getting Gene Therapy Through The FDA
36:31 - Measuring Risk Factors