CRISPR: Rewriting DNA to Treat Rare Genetic Diseases – From Scientific Breakthrough to Patient Care
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.
This public lecture, which everybody is welcome to join, is part of the Lorentz Center workshop: CRISPR Futures: Responsible Gene Editing Innovation.
Practical information
When: Thursday the 8th of October 2026. The lecture will be from 17.30 to 18.30 hrs. Feel free to join us for drinks afterwards, from 18.30 to 19.30 hrs. If you want to visit the museum we advise you to do so beforehand, the exhibit halls will close at 17.00 hrs.
Where: In the lecture hall of the museum
Language: English
Cost: Attending the lecture is free with a museum ticket (you can purchase a museum ticket at the museum desk, when you have a student card/Museumcard it’s completely free of charge). You get a discount if you buy your ticket online. Check our website for ticket information.
Register: Please register via the button below.
