Science you live with: from your skin to society

Cosmetics are some of the most scientific materials humans make. From ancient times to the modern day, cosmetics have a rich history. Moisturizers, sun blocks, and hair care products, medicated ointments, beauty aids and topically applied materials, cosmetics offer something for everyone. Learn more about what's in these fascinating products and why.

Scientists were once considered the keepers of truth: their efforts uncovered and explained realities of the world around us, including the origins of disease. Nevertheless, for some time, and surely fueled by the COVID pandemic, the word of a scientist has become less readily accepted, and some have proposed that scientific investigation is just another form of “opinion.” In this discussion, we will consider how we got here, and discuss some recommendations for how we—scientists and nonscientists alike—can move forward amidst the rancor.

Millions of patients with rare and ultra-rare genetic disorders still lack effective treatments. Gene editing tools have the potential to correct DNA misspellings that cause devastating diseases. Recently, we have shown that it is possible to develop and administer a personalized gene editing therapy in 7 months after the birth of a patient with a severe metabolic disorder, demonstrating this process can be safe and provide clinical benefit. This work puts us one step closer to making these therapies accessible for more patients in need.