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BETA-BET: Pioneering Gene-Editing Initiative Targets Thalassemia’s Genetic Core

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

Introduction

A groundbreaking project at the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING) is set to transform the treatment landscape for beta-thalassemia, the most common inherited blood disorder in Cyprus. The initiative aims to deliver a one-time, curative therapy by leveraging advanced gene-editing technologies.

Path to Breakthrough

The Molecular Genetics Thalassaemia Department (MGTD) has announced the launch of the BETA-BET: Targeted Base Editing for Beta Thalassemia project. This ambitious program focuses on addressing the HBBIVSI-110 mutation, the primary genetic culprit behind the condition on the island. Beta-thalassemia arises from abnormalities in the β-globin gene (HBB), which plays a vital role in oxygen transportation through haemoglobin. Traditionally, patients have depended on lifelong blood transfusions to manage chronic anemia, a burden that this new therapy seeks to eliminate.

Expanding the Scope of Base Editing

The BETA-BET project, funded with a substantial budget of €198.83 million by the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) along with co-funding from the European Union and the Republic of Cyprus, pioneers the use of “base editing” technology. This method, comparable to a precise biological pencil and eraser, corrects single “letter” errors in the DNA sequence without inducing double-stranded breaks. An earlier preclinical study—conducted in collaboration with leading institutions across Greece and Germany—demonstrated the potential of these tools to effectively restore the production of functional red blood cells in individuals homozygous for the HBBIVSI-110 mutation.

Innovative Delivery System

Beyond expanding the patient group to include compound heterozygotes, whose prevalence significantly exceeds that of homozygotes in many regions, the project introduces a revolutionary delivery mechanism. Engineered virus-like particles (eVLPs) are being developed to function as microscopic delivery drones, transporting gene-editing complexes directly to blood-forming stem cells. This strategy could simplify treatment administration to a single injection, thereby eliminating the current, complicated process of ex vivo stem cell manipulation.

Collaborative Leadership and Global Partnerships

Under the expert guidance of Dr Petros Patsali, Associate Scientist at MGTD, and a team of renowned researchers, the project draws on a network of national and international partners. Esteemed collaborators include institutions such as George Papanikolaou Hospital, the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and the University of Freiburg, among others. These partnerships not only bolster the project’s scientific rigor but also enhance its global relevance, particularly in high-incidence areas like Greece and Egypt.

Conclusion

By extending the precision of base editing to a wider patient demographic and integrating novel delivery systems, the BETA-BET initiative represents a significant advance in gene therapy. This innovative approach could eventually provide a transformative, one-time treatment for thousands of patients, marking a milestone in the pursuit of a definitive cure for thalassemia.

Central Bank Of Cyprus Balance Sheet Reflects Strong Eurosystem Position

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

Overview Of Financial Stability

The Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) has released its latest balance sheet, reaffirming its steadfast role within the Eurosystem. The balance sheet, featuring total assets and liabilities of €29.545 billion, underscores the institution’s stable financial posture at the close of January 2026.

Asset Allocation And Strategic Holdings

Governor Christodoulos Patsalides issued the balance sheet, which details the CBC’s asset composition under the Eurosystem framework. Notably, the bank’s gold and gold receivables amounted to €1.635 billion, providing a significant hedge and stability to its balance sheet. Additional asset categories include claims on non-euro area residents denominated in foreign currency at €1.099 billion, while claims on euro area residents in both foreign and domestic currency add further depth to its portfolio.

The most substantial asset category, intra-Eurosystem claims, reached €19.438 billion, an indication of the CBC’s deep integration with its European counterparts. Furthermore, euro-denominated securities held by euro area residents contributed €6.587 billion. Despite a marked emphasis on these areas, lending to euro area credit institutions in monetary policy operations recorded no activity during the period.

Liability Structure And Monetary Policy Implications

On the liabilities side, banknotes in circulation contributed €3.218 billion. Liabilities to euro area credit institutions associated with monetary policy operations were notably the largest single category, totaling €17.636 billion. Supplementary liabilities included those to other euro area residents, which aggregated to €4.989 billion, with government liabilities playing a predominant role at €4.754 billion.

Other liability items, such as claims related to special drawing rights allocated by the International Monetary Fund at €494.193 million, and provisions of €596.571 million, further articulate the CBC’s exposure. Revaluation accounts stood at €1.643 billion, and overall capital and reserves were confirmed at €333.822 million, completing the picture of a well-capitalized institution.

Conclusive Insights And Strategic Alignment

The detailed breakdown illustrates the CBC’s sizeable intra-Eurosystem exposures, reinforcing its central role within Europe’s monetary landscape. With an asset-liability balance maintained at €29.545 billion, the CBC’s financial position remains robust, indicating a commitment to structural stability and strategic risk management.

This fiscal disclosure not only provides transparency into the CBC’s operations but also serves as a benchmark for comparative analysis among other central banks within the Eurosystem, highlighting the intricate balance between asset liquidity, regulatory oversight, and monetary policy imperatives.

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