Prime Medicine stock rises after new program announcement

Shares of Prime Medicine are rising sharply today. The gene-editing company's stock went up by 10.5% by 2 p.m. ET. Earlier, it had surged as much as 17%. This increase comes as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite also saw gains of 0.4% and 0.7%, respectively. The boost in Prime Medicine's stock follows the announcement of a new preclinical program. This program aims to treat alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD), a serious genetic disorder that affects lung and liver function. The company plans to submit an application to the FDA for clinical trials by mid-2026. Prime Medicine's technology uses a new method to edit the SERPINA1 gene. This gene, when mutated, causes the condition they are targeting. Investors are excited about the potential for trials to start in 2026, especially after the company shared encouraging early data. Despite the excitement, Prime Medicine is still a clinical-stage biotech company. There are many risks ahead in developing new therapies, and success is not guaranteed. Even if everything goes well, it could take years before any therapies are available for sale. However, Prime Medicine has other therapies that are further along in development, and its technology is seen as impressive. For investors willing to take risks, Prime Medicine might be an interesting option to consider.