Two papers published online in Nature Biotechnology introduce DIAL, a programmable promoter‑editing framework that engineers synthetic promoters to generate heritable setpoints of transgene expression across cell types. The technique allows graded, reversible control over expression rather than binary on/off edits, enabling researchers to dial gene activity for therapeutic or synthetic‑biology applications. Authors demonstrate applicability across models and highlight potential for precise dosing of gene therapies and safer transgene expression control.