Ilinca Sasu
Class of 2027Winnetka, California
About
Hello! My name is Ilinca Sasu and my Polygence project revolves around developing a treatment plan for Crohn's Disease by implementing gene editing technology to make patients responsive to biologic treatments. Having the condition, I strive to help others with Crohn's Disease who aren't as fortunate as me and pave the way for further incorporating gene editing therapies into this condition. I'm excited to learn more about my Crohn's and ways we can combat it at its source. I especially want to pursue a medical career so I can further my passion and help others.Projects
- "How can we utilize CRISPR to target genetic mutations to make patients responsive to biologics treatment?" with mentor Lizzie (Feb. 5, 2025)
Project Portfolio
How can we utilize CRISPR to target genetic mutations to make patients responsive to biologics treatment?
Started Aug. 27, 2024
Abstract or project description
Crohn’s Disease is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in any part of the digestive tract, affecting millions of individuals around the world. There is no cure; however, treatments include reconstructive bowel surgery, antibiotics, and biologics. Biologics intend to neutralize the proteins that cause inflammation; however, when they don’t work for some patients, they can cause further complications. This project aims to incorporate CRISPR/Cas 9 technology to correct the ATG16L1 gene rs2241880 T300A mutation and serve as a guideline for future applications of the treatment plan, with the goal of potentially treating the patient and helping them obtain long-term remission. CHOPCHOP was the best choice for the experiment because of its easily accessible format and in-depth results and analysis. Out of 157 target sequences, we identified one that is the best because of its ideal GC content and overall efficiency ranking of 74%. If this treatment worked, it would help the 10-30% of people who don’t respond properly to Infliximab.