Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have succeeded in correcting a genetic mutation using a customized “genetic patch” in early stage fish embryos so that these embryos developed normally. The research may help prevent one-fifth of human birth defects due to genetic mutations. The breakthrough was reached using a zebrafish model of the Menkes disease, which is caused by a mutation in the ATP7A gene in humans.

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According to Michael Blaber, a researcher at the Florida State University College of Medicine, mutant forms of human protein may help restore blood flow to the damaged areas of the heart. Blaber hopes that these mutant proteins may be used in new treatment methods for those patients with advanced heart disease who had no other options earlier.