Add BrightSurf on Google Email

DAP array casts a wide net to fix mutations

A new genome-editing strategy called DAP array can correct dozens of errors at the same time with high precision and efficiency, avoiding off-target edits. The technique leverages tRNA to drive multiple guide RNAs on a single array, then released individually by cells to direct genome editors for edits at multiple human genomic sites.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

CRISPR now possible in cockroaches

Researchers have developed a novel CRISPR-Cas9 method for gene editing in cockroaches, achieving efficiency rates of up to 22% and over 50% in the red flour beetle. The technique, named DIPA-CRISPR, allows for efficient and accessible gene editing without requiring expensive equipment or skilled laboratory personnel.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2022

Novel supramolecular CRISPR–Cas9 carrier enables more efficient genome editing

A team of researchers from Kumamoto University has developed a transformable polyrotaxane carrier that can facilitate genome editing using Cas9RNP with high efficiency. The carrier, called amino-PRX, is multi-step transformable and has low cytotoxicity, making it an enormously promising candidate for safe and efficient delivery.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalApplied Materials Today·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2022

Researchers expand target range of CRISPR/Cas Systems

Scientists have developed a new approach to expand the target range of CRISPR/Cas systems, allowing for slight variations in target DNA while maintaining local specificity. This technology could help realize the potential of CRISPR/Cas-based gene therapy and pathogen diagnosis, particularly for diagnostics.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 29, 2022

Scientists put CRISPR on safer path to patient treatments with new process for evaluating impacts of gene edits that alter rather than “knock out” DNA code

Researchers at ChristianaCare's Gene Editing Institute describe a new process for evaluating the impacts of gene edits that alter rather than completely disabling DNA code. The study validates the safety and efficacy of their novel approach for using CRISPR to improve lung cancer treatments.

SourceChristianaCare Gene Editing Institute·JournalGene Therapy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2022

Studying diseases with better delivery of gene-editing tools

A Penn State-led team of researchers developed a new delivery system that improves the efficiency and lifespan of CRISPR gene-editing tools after delivery into stem cells. The method uses an enzyme called PiggyBac, which enables permanent integration of the editing tools into the cell's genetic code, resulting in 99% of mutated cells b...

SourcePenn State·JournalBioactive Materials·DateMar 7, 2022

Intestinal cells change functions during their lives

Recent studies found that intestinal cells can change specializations in response to BMP signaling. This process, called zonation, is crucial for the proper functioning of the gut. Researchers used organoids and mouse models to confirm this discovery, which may lead to new treatments for metabolic diseases.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2022

Discovery of a “hidden gem” enables gene editing with a small but mighty CRISPR-Cas3 system

Scientists have developed a novel CRISPR-Cas3 editor from the bacteria Neisseria lactamica that improves editing efficiency and is more easily produced. The tool enables 50% editing efficiency in stem cells and 95% efficiency in other human cell lines, paving the way for research in genetic diseases and developmental biology.

Researchers Switch Off Gene to Switch On Ultraviolet in Butterfly Wings

A team of researchers at George Washington University identified a gene that determines whether ultraviolet iridescence appears in the wings of butterflies. Removing this gene from non-iridescent species leads to UV coloration in their wings, highlighting its critical role in evolutionary differences between species.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 10, 2022

New research helps explain the genetic basis for why we look the way we do

A new study published in Science Advances has shed light on the genetic basis of human appearance features by investigating the role of Hox genes. The researchers replaced the proboscipedia gene in a common laboratory fruit fly with its counterpart from a rarer Hawaiian cousin, revealing that Hox genes function as scaffolds for downstr...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Genetic analysis uncovers shared evolutionary history of fish fins and vertebrate limbs

Researchers used CRISPR gene-editing tools to show that a gene controlling bone growth in fish fins plays the same role in forming fingers and toes in four-legged creatures. The study suggests that the last common ancestor between ray- and lobe-finned fish already had the genetic toolkit to shape their appendages.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 8, 2021