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WOX9: A jack of all trades

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.

UIC researchers invent new gene-editing tool

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',

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 23, 2021

Tweaking corn kernels with CRISPR

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.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalNature Plants·DateFeb 22, 2021

Research shows potential of gene editing in barley

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.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateSep 17, 2020

Researchers map mechanisms in the largest CRISPR system

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.

New CRISPR advance may solve key quandary

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.

SourceBurness·JournalMolecular Cancer Research·DateJun 2, 2020

'CRISPR: A Screener's Guide' headlines the March edition of SLAS Discovery

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.

Curing genetic disease in human cells

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.

SourceHubrecht Institute·JournalCell Stem Cell·DateFeb 20, 2020

For CRISPR, tweaking DNA fragments before inserting yields highest efficiency rates yet

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.

MAGIC system allows researchers to modulate the activity of genes acting in concert

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.

Genomic cut and paste using a Class 1 CRISPR system

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.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 9, 2019

CRISPR: More than just for gene editing?

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.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 11, 2019