Lezing
Lorentz Lecture: CRISPR: Rewriting DNA to Treat Rare Genetic Diseases
- Datum
- donderdag 8 oktober 2026
- Tijd
- Bezoekadres
- Rijksmuseum Boerhaave
Lange St. Agnietenstraat 10
2312WC Leiden - Zaal
- Congreszaal
CRISPR has transformed biology by making it possible to edit DNA with unprecedented precision. What began as a remarkable scientific discovery has rapidly evolved into one of the most promising technologies for treating genetic diseases.
In this lecture, Dr. Daniël Warmerdam will discuss how CRISPR works and how it is opening new possibilities for treating patients. Through real-world examples, he will illustrate how researchers are developing therapies that aim to correct the underlying genetic cause of disease, rather than simply treating symptoms.
The lecture will also explore the challenges that remain. Although the science is advancing rapidly, many patients still cannot benefit from these innovations. Why is that? What barriers stand in the way? And what role can researchers, policymakers, industry, patients and society play in ensuring that these breakthrough therapies become available, accessible and affordable, particularly for patients with unmet medical needs?
About the speaker
Dr. Daniël Warmerdam is an Assistant Professor at Amsterdam UMC, where he leads the Molecular Therapy Laboratory within the Department of Human Genetics. His research focuses on developing CRISPR-based therapies for rare genetic diseases, with a particular emphasis on in vivo gene editing and translating new technologies into treatments for patients.
In addition, he is one of the initiators of the Amsterdam UMC Gene Care Center, an initiative that aims to accelerate the development and implementation of innovative CRISPR therapies. His work brings together molecular biology, clinical genetics, regulatory science and healthcare innovation to help ensure that scientific breakthroughs ultimately benefit patients.