Scientists report that prime editing successfully shuts down a gene involved in smooth muscle cell differentiation, correcting genetic problems and disease models. Prime editing is less complicated and more precise than traditional CRISPR, with fewer components and no collateral damage.
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a gene therapy that temporarily represses a gene involved in sensing pain, increasing pain tolerance and providing months of relief. The therapy could be used for various chronic pain conditions, including lower back pain and rare neuropathic disorders.
Researchers discovered that the WOX9 gene can induce more flowers to form in various plant species by changing its regulation, suggesting potential for improving crop yields. Genome editing allowed them to reveal the gene's additional functions without altering its protein product.
Researchers at Tufts University use lipid nanoparticles to deliver CRISPR machinery specifically to the liver, reducing blood cholesterol levels by up to 57% in mice. The treatment may provide a long-term solution for high cholesterol, which affects over 29 million Americans.
Stanford researchers developed a novel technique attaching nanobodies to CRISPR for targeted gene control. This combo enables precise on/off switching of specific genes, potentially correcting epigenetic defects without combining large effectors.
Researchers used DNA origami to analyze ultra-fast movements of CRISPR enzymes, enabling them to understand how they recognize target sequences. This technique will help optimize CRISPR for fewer off-target matches and improve gene editing processes.
Researchers have developed a new method, Cre-Controlled CRISPR, which combines the benefits of the Cre/lox system and CRISPR/Cas9 genetic scissors for conditional gene inactivation. This approach allows for faster and easier gene editing with reduced labor needed to flank genes with lox sequences.
Researchers have discovered a new gene-editing technique that allows for the programming of sequential cuts in genes, enabling researchers to better investigate time-sensitive processes like cancer development. The discovery was made by UIC's Bradley Merrill and colleagues using special molecules called 'proGuides',
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have successfully applied CRISPR to increase corn kernel numbers by targeting promoter regions that regulate gene activity. This technique holds promise for increasing crop yields per acre and making agriculture more sustainable.
A new tool, DECODR, scans for potential errors in CRISPR gene repair, revealing risks to patients. The affordable app uses open-source software and can detect a wide range of DNA mutations at a fraction of the cost.
Researchers have discovered that TALEN is up to five times more efficient than CRISPR-Cas9 in targeting densely packed DNA regions, including those causing fragile X syndrome and sickle cell anemia. This breakthrough adds to the need for a broader selection of genome-editing tools to target all parts of the genome.
The CRISPR Journal has published a special issue on expanding the CRISPR toolbox, featuring new research tools and discoveries. The collection includes articles on novel Type V-A Cas12 enzymes, in silico tools for CRISPR-Cas system identification, and advances in guide design and selection.
A new CRISPR-based technique allows researchers to profile a cell's entire genome and identify the DNA sequences regulating specific genes. This enables simultaneous testing of thousands of experiments, paving the way for faster discovery of genetic networks and potential therapeutic targets.
Scientists at ChristianaCare's Gene Editing Institute are developing a novel gene therapy for inherited blood disorders like sickle cell disease using CRISPR technology. The team aims to identify genetic variations that affect treatment efficacy and create a tailored approach for personalized medicine.
Researchers have developed a safer, more targeted way to deliver CRISPR gene therapy using light-activated liposomes. The new method uses spherical nanostructures of fat molecules to carry CRISPR molecules to specific sites in the body.
A recent study published in Cell reveals that CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing can lead to undesirable outcomes, including the elimination of entire chromosomes or large sections in human embryos. The research warns against premature clinical application of this technology until further development and testing are conducted.
Researchers create genetic sensors that can detect gene activity, not just presence, using CRISPR-Cas13 system. This innovation has potential for biotech applications, including therapeutics and diagnostics.
The CRISPR Journal announces its October 2020 issue, featuring expert reactions to the National Academies' Heritable Human Genome Editing report. The journal also presents a comprehensive survey of global laws and regulations on hereditary human genome editing, highlighting both countries that prohibit and permit such research.
A genotype-agnostic gene therapy for cystic fibrosis has shown promise in clinical trials, potentially treating the disease in any patient, independent of their underlying mutation. Challenges remain to be overcome, including developing effective drug delivery systems that can reach pulmonary epithelial cells at low doses.
Researchers have developed two new genetic systems, e-CHACR and ERACR, to halt or eliminate the spread of gene drives in the wild. These systems use CRISPR technology to neutralize gene drives, which carry the power to immunize mosquitoes against malarial parasites or act as genetic insecticides.
Researchers have successfully applied CRISPR gene editing to influence the levels of beta-glucan in barley grain, with implications for brewing and distilling industries. The study provides insight into key genes responsible for barley grain composition, enabling plant breeders to accelerate breeding and develop new crop varieties.
Researchers developed a new tool to guide scientists in choosing the best CRISPR enzyme for their high-stakes gene edits, making the technology safer, cheaper and more efficient. The tool helps identify where mistakes are most likely to occur for each enzyme, saving time and reducing risk.
Researchers discovered that bacteria acquire spacers for their CRISPR 'database' by selecting snippets of bacteriophage's genetic information. This complex mechanism allows the bacteria to recognize and destroy invading viral genetic material.
Researchers created a system that uses CRISPR to briefly suppress genes related to AAV antibody production, allowing the virus to deliver its cargo unimpeded. The study shows promise for improving gene therapy's effectiveness and preventing or treating sepsis in mice.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have mapped and analyzed the atomic structure of the Cmr-β complex, a type III-B CRISPR-Cas system. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms behind this complex's immune response against phages and its potential therapeutic applications in fighting antibiotic resistance.
The new CGBE1 tool enables efficient induction of C-to-G mutations while minimizing unwanted changes, offering potential for treating disease-associated genetic mutations. Co-authors envision CGBE1 as useful for research applications, enabling introduction of specific C-to-G mutations.
A new hypercompact CRISPR enzyme, CasΦ, has been discovered in huge bacteriophages and provides a powerful tool for genome editing. It can target a wider range of genetic sequences than current CRISPR-Cas proteins, making it a promising alternative for cellular delivery.
A new study improves CRISPR gene editing by mutating the Cas9 enzyme to reduce off-target hits. The mutation increases fidelity up to 93-fold, making it a potentially safer strategy for gene therapy.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a light-activated CRISPR system that allows for targeted DNA cutting within seconds. The new technology reveals new details about the DNA repair process, which may aid in understanding aging and cancer.
A Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) project uses CRISPR tools to target and destroy the SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome in cells, potentially providing a new therapeutic approach. The researchers will test the functionality and non-toxicity of CRISPR reagents in zebrafish embryos before moving on to human viruses and infected cells.
A team of scientists from Stanford University has developed a gene-targeting, antiviral agent against COVID-19 using CRISPR technology. The system delivers PAC-MAN into lung cells, neutralizing the coronavirus and stopping it from replicating inside cells.
Scientists at ChristianaCare's Gene Editing Institute have developed a new CRISPR advance that can safely target and disable the NRF2 gene linked to a bleak prognosis in lung cancer tumors. This approach aims to improve the efficacy of conventional chemotherapy and radiation treatments while minimizing harm to normal cells.
A study using CRISPR technology has developed a rapid detection platform to genetically distinguish threatened fish species from non-native species in near real-time. This tool shortens the process from hours to minutes, enabling researchers to identify species quickly and accurately.
Researchers at UMD are using CRISPR technology to create microelectronic devices that can electronically turn genes on and off. This technique has the potential to bridge the gap between biology and electronics, enabling new wearable and smart devices.
Scientists have developed a new model for studying developmental biology by creating sea urchins with reduced breeding cycles. The breakthrough uses CRISPR technology to edit genes responsible for pigment production, resulting in albino sea urchins that can thrive in the lab.
Researchers developed a CRISPR-based diagnostic test that screens for cytomegalovirus, BK polyomavirus, and CXCL9 mRNA in urine samples to monitor kidney transplant patients. The assay is highly accurate even at low target concentrations, offering a promising alternative to traditional blood tests and biopsies.
Researchers explore using CRISPR in nongenetic model plants, overcoming technical obstacles with adapted transformation systems. Polyploidy studies reveal the biological underpinnings of genetic consequences.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen discovered that type IV CRISPR-Cas systems are used by plasmid parasites to battle each other for control of a host bacterium. This finding reveals that CRISPR has multiple uses beyond defense against viruses.
Scientists developed a new CRISPR screen technology to target RNA, enabling accurate and fast detection of specific RNA targets. The technology uses Cas13 enzymes to identify key genes involved in various diseases, including cancer and sickle-cell anemia.
Researchers used CRISPR-Cas system to effectively target and eliminate specific gut bacteria, including Clostridioides difficile, the pathogen that causes colitis. The study demonstrates the potential of this approach in preventing disease and promoting human gut health.
A new CRISPR-Cas12b system enables efficient plant genome engineering with gene editing, activation and repression capabilities. The system outperforms existing CRISPR tools, offering improved efficiency and versatility for plant breeding and disease resistance.
A new CRISPR gene drive system, TARE, has been developed that can delay resistance and spread to regional populations. By targeting a essential gene, the drive disables one copy while leaving another intact, allowing it to spread through a population over time.
Scientists from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign developed a new CRISPR gene-editing methodology that inactivated a key gene responsible for ALS, slowing disease progression and improving muscle function. The treatment also increased overall survival in mice with aggressive forms of ALS.
A recent study published in Nature found that CRISPR anti-viral immunity is often a disadvantage to bacteria when infected by certain viruses. The research suggests that triggering the powerful defense systems can be risky for a bacterium, leading to significant implications for treatment design.
The discovery of CRISPR-Cas9 systems has revolutionized pharmaceutical research by allowing for industrial-scale gene editing and functional genomic screening. This enables the identification of new biological targets for precision medicines and the exploration of mechanisms of drug resistance and sensitivity ahead of clinical trials.
Scientists have successfully used CRISPR/Cas9 base-editing to cure cystic fibrosis in human stem cells, providing a promising new approach for treating genetic diseases. The technique, which repairs mutations without cutting DNA, shows great promise for the future treatment of various genetic disorders.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new method called TREE to edit genes implicated in Alzheimer's disease, achieving 90% efficiency in human stem cells. The breakthrough uses base editors to make single DNA edits with high accuracy, paving the way for personalized medicine and disease modeling.
Researchers have developed DNA-binding editorial assistants to open up genes obscured by chromatin packaging, enabling CRISPR editing. This breakthrough enhances CRISPR efficiency and moves towards genetic-based assaults on diseases.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new technique to increase CRISPR-Cas9 efficiency, achieving up to five times higher rates of inserting genes into human cells. This breakthrough has significant implications for clinical gene-therapy applications and basic biological research.
Researchers have developed a new functional genomics system, MAGIC, which allows them to modulate the activity of multiple genes in concert. By combining individual gene edits with custom DNA sequences, scientists can explore synergistic effects and better understand complex traits.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have developed a new gene editing tool called INTEGRATE, which uses cryo-electron microscopy to capture high-resolution images of the complex in action. The tool appears to work by targeting DNA for accurate insertion of genetic payloads without introducing DNA breaks.
Japanese researchers have developed a Class 1 CRISPR gene editing system that enables efficient DNA repairs in human cells with minimal off-target effects. The Cas3 protein-based approach achieves superior genome editing efficiency compared to traditional Class 2 systems, opening doors for new therapeutic applications.
Phages construct an impenetrable compartment to protect their vulnerable DNA from CRISPR and restriction enzymes. This unique mechanism makes them virtually indestructible, with only two jumbo phages showing pan-CRISPR resistance.
A new study reveals a new tool that can analyze CRISPR edits in just 48 hours, identifying multiple outcomes of the process. The tool detects subtle mutations to DNA near the site of repair, which may have no consequence for patients but are essential to gauge patient risks.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed an electrochemical CRISPR platform that can detect specific viruses, such as HPV and parvo, in a single droplet of blood. This innovative device has the potential to provide accurate results in under an hour, compared to existing tests which take three to five days.
Researchers have developed a new CRISPR-Cas9 protein, SaCas9-HF, to increase the precision of genome editing. The new variant shows high accuracy in targeting human cells without compromising on-target efficiency.
A new CRISPR approach called prime editing has been developed by combining two key proteins and a new RNA to make targeted insertions, deletions, and single-letter changes in human cells. The system expands the scope of gene editing with up to 89% precision and potential correction of disease-causing genetic variations.
A new peer-reviewed journal discusses human genome editing's pros and cons, including concerns over non-Mendelian conditions and governance. The CRISPR Journal special issue explores various topics, from germline editing to gene therapy, with recommendations for democratic governance.
The CRISPR Journal publishes special issue on human genome editing ethics, exploring governance, moratoriums, and access. Experts argue for democratic governance and against imposing moratoriums, highlighting the need to regulate germline editing for safety and efficacy.
CRISPR-BEST addresses the challenge of genetic instability caused by double-stranded breaks in genome editing. The new tool creates mutations in actinomycetes without DNA breakage, enabling efficient targeting of genes for bioactive compound production.