Genome Editing
Articles tagged with Genome Editing
Researchers show CRISPR can selectively destroy cells, a cancer-treatment goal
Researchers have successfully developed a new CRISPR system, Cas12a2, that can selectively kill cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. The technology uses a guide RNA to target specific genetic mutations and has shown promise in reducing tumor volume by 50% after a single treatment.
New technology enables ‘rewriting a chapter’ of the genome
A new technology allows for the efficient insertion of large DNA segments, enabling a 'chapter rewrite' in the genome. This method avoids double-strand breaks and can correct hundreds of mutations simultaneously.
A universal toolkit for editing bacterial DNA
Researchers have developed a universal toolkit for editing bacterial DNA in 15 diverse species, including human pathogens and fast-growing biotechnology organisms. The technology uses retrons, an immune system that produces DNA, to efficiently modify genes, with varying success rates across different species.
Genome editing turns red lettuce green and increases beneficial flavonoid content
Researchers used genome editing to inactivate a gene involved in anthocyanin production, resulting in increased accumulation of other flavonoids. This modification did not affect lettuce growth, suggesting a promising strategy for developing cultivars with tailored functional components.
CRISPR variant selectively targets tumor DNA
Researchers identified a CRISPR variant that distinguishes tumor DNA from healthy DNA and selectively cuts the former. This method relies on methyl groups attached to DNA, which are altered in cancer cells.
New bite-sized CRISPR molecule may open doors for therapeutic genome editing
Researchers have discovered a smaller CRISPR enzyme, Al3Cas12f, that can efficiently edit genes in human cells. The enzyme's unique structure allows it to form a stable connection with DNA, making it a promising candidate for therapeutic genome editing.
Non-clinical safety considerations for CRISPR/CAS genome editing
The review emphasizes the need for robust non-clinical safety assessment to ensure CRISPR/Cas gene therapy products' safe translation. Central risks include genotoxicity and immunogenicity, mitigated by high-fidelity Cas variants and emerging delivery strategies.
One DNA letter can trigger complete sex reversal, Bar-Ilan University study finds
Researchers at Bar-Ilan University have discovered that changing just one letter in DNA can completely alter sex development in mice. A single-letter insertion in a non-coding regulatory region caused XX mice to develop as males with testis and male genitalia.
Genetically modified marmosets as a model for human deafness
Researchers have created genetically modified marmosets with a knocked-out OTOF gene, replicating key characteristics of human deafness. The animals developed normally but were deaf from birth, offering a crucial tool for developing new therapies.
DNA shape explains crucial gene-therapy challenges
Researchers discovered that DNA twisting plays a significant role in CRISPR's mistakes, compromising safety and efficacy. The study used tiny DNA circles called minicircles to capture interactions between CRISPR and DNA, providing insights to help eradicate errors altogether.
RNA-guided CRISPR system activates gene expression
Researchers have discovered an RNA-guided CRISPR system that can activate genes without cutting DNA, opening up new possibilities for gene regulation and therapeutic strategies. The system uses a strand of RNA as a guide to recruit the cell's transcription machinery, allowing for precise control over gene expression.
Researchers develop new way to safely insert gene-sized DNA into the genome
A new approach, called INSTALL, enables non-toxic DNA integration in multiple human cell types and successfully inserts large genetic payloads in mice, offering a promising solution for genetic therapies. The study's findings have the potential to broaden the applicability of genome editing therapies.
A common CRISPR platform enables comparative studies of multicellularity in social amoebae
A common CRISPR platform has been established for comparative analysis of multicellularity across different species of social amoebas. This technique enables gene modifications in several Dictyostelia species, ranging from ancestral to more complex groups.
A new experimental strategy uses gene editing against tumours with too many oncogenes
A team of researchers uses CRISPR gene editing to eliminate cells with amplified oncogenes, reducing tumour growth and increasing animal survival. The study offers a promising approach for precision therapies in resistant cancers.
Next generation genetics technology developed to counter the rise of antibiotic resistance
Researchers developed a novel CRISPR-based technology called pPro-MobV that can remove antibiotic-resistant elements from bacterial populations. The new tool uses gene-drive thinking and has the potential to combat antibiotic resistance in healthcare settings, environmental remediation, and microbiome engineering.
Two-step genome editing enables the creation of full-length humanized mouse models
A two-step genome editing method integrates large human genomic fragments into mice, mimicking human regulatory landscapes. This platform enables the creation of physiologically relevant humanized models for therapeutic targets and disease research.
New study explores therapeutic potential of CRISPRCas3 genome-editing system
The CRISPR-Cas3 system has been shown to induce reliable and extensive deletions of the TTR gene in mouse models of ATTR, reducing serum TTR levels by up to 80%. This technology holds promise for treating not onlyATTR but also other incurable inherited diseases.
USU chemists' CRISPR discovery could lead to single diagnostic test for COVID, flu, RSV
Researchers at Utah State University have discovered a new CRISPR system that can precisely target transfer RNA in invading pathogens, which could lead to the development of a single diagnostic test for COVID, influenza, and RSV. This discovery enables the detection and targeting of specific pathogens without damaging host cells.
CRISPR-edited grass carp grow faster via disabling of muscle growth brake
Researchers use CRISPR/Cas9 to edit the mstnb gene in grass carp, resulting in denser muscle tissue with a higher number of fibers. This breakthrough allows for targeted and precise changes in muscle growth, promising improvements in aquaculture.
Uncovering how parasitic plants avoid attacking themselves to improve crop resistance
Researchers at Nara Institute of Science and Technology discovered that parasitic plants recognize
CRISPR primes goldenberry for fruit bowl fame
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory use CRISPR to edit the goldenberry plant, reducing its growth by 35% and making it suitable for denser farming. The team hopes to breed plants with desirable traits such as fruit size and disease resistance.
Mapping ‘dark’ regions of the genome illuminates how cells respond to their environment
Researchers used CRISPR technologies to discover previously unannotated DNA stretches in the 'dark genome', which control cell response to mechanical properties of their environment. This work could lead to new therapeutic targets for illnesses involving changes to tissue mechanics, including fibrosis and cancer.
Mount Sinai study finds childhood leukemia aggressiveness depends on timing of genetic mutation
A Mount Sinai study found that the timing of a genetic mutation in children with leukemia can significantly impact its aggressiveness. The researchers discovered that leukemia caused by mutations occurring before birth is often more aggressive and harder to treat than those occurring later in life.
UK-CGIAR Centre roundtable in Morocco opens new discussion on precision-bred crops in North Africa and beyond
A roundtable meeting in Morocco brought together experts to discuss precision breeding technologies for nutritional security and crop resilience. Precision breeding offers a targeted approach to improve crop genetics, addressing malnutrition and climate change impacts.
Molecule that could cause COVID clotting key to new treatments
Researchers discovered a 'sticky' molecule, P-selectin, that can cause blood clots and organ failure during COVID-19. A new mRNA therapy that drives P-selectin expression provides broad protection against coronavirus infection.
New gene-editing tech holds promise for treating complex genetic diseases
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a novel gene-editing method that can correct multiple disease-causing mutations simultaneously. This approach uses bacterial retrons to protect the microbes from viral infection and has shown promising results in correcting scoliosis-causing mutations in zebrafish embryos.
How immune cells deliver their deadly cargo
Researchers identified key genes connected to cellular lipid metabolism that guide the precise release of cytotoxic granules in human NK and T cells. This discovery explains how immune cells work and sheds light on diseases caused by genetic defects.
In chromosome of key biotech bacterium, different setups bring different strengths
Researchers found that Agrobacterium's virulence is more effective in its natural two-chromosome state, but it grows faster and handles stress better when fused into a single chromosome. This study opens the door for optimizing its use as a crop improvement tool or devising new ways to protect crops vulnerable to crown galls.
CityUHK develops novel “DNA surgery” with therapeutic potential for liver and cardiovascular genetic diseases
The CityUHK team is developing two core therapeutic medicines using state-of-the-art DNA surgery technology to treat liver and cardiovascular genetic diseases. Their approach offers a durable and long-lasting solution, eliminating the need for repeated medications.
Scientists reveal functional RNA splitting mechanism behind origin of Type V CRISPR systems
Researchers discovered that the functional splitting of transposon-derived RNAs drove the emergence of Type V CRISPR-Cas immunity. This innovation enabled the development of compact nucleases with flexible guide RNAs, offering design principles to create smaller and more versatile CRISPR tools.
Boosting the body’s cancer fighters
Scientists have developed a new method to systematically discover genetic boosters for CAR T cells, a type of immune therapy. By knocking out genes that weaken CAR T cell function, researchers found a surprising genetic target: RHOG, which increases therapeutic potential when knocked out with CRISPR technology.
Small nuclear RNA base editing a safer alternative to CRISPR, UC San Diego researchers find
Researchers at UC San Diego have created a new genetic editing approach that uses small nuclear RNA base editing, which can modify the genetic code with greater precision and safety than CRISPR. This method has the potential to treat various diseases, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, and immune disorders.
Gene editing to treat inherited kidney disease
Researchers at the Max Delbrück Center have successfully used base editing to correct mutations that cause autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) in human and mouse cells. The technique shows promise in reducing liver cysts, a key symptom of the disease.
MIT researchers find a more precise way to edit the genome
Researchers at MIT have developed a new approach to gene editing that reduces errors by up to 90%, making it a safer alternative for treating genetic diseases. The technique uses modified versions of the Cas9 enzyme to target specific DNA sequences, reducing off-target effects and increasing precision.
Customized gene-editing technology shows potential to treat lethal pediatric disease
Researchers from Mass General Brigham developed a bespoke CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing enzyme to correct the genetic error causing multisystemic smooth muscle dysfunction syndrome, a rare condition associated with stroke and death in childhood. The therapy extended survival four-fold in mouse models of MSMDS.
CRISPR study reveals surprising role of Cas9 as a guardian of bacterial defense
A recent study by Michigan Medicine researchers has found that CRISPR-Cas9 forms immune memories in bacteria by boosting spacer acquisition when RNA levels are low. This discovery expands our understanding of how bacteria safeguard their immune memory and may inspire new ways to design CRISPR-based molecular recording tools.
In search of the perfect raspberry
Researchers at Cranfield University have developed a DNA-free gene editing technique for raspberries, which could lead to the creation of more sustainable and resilient varieties. The new method uses CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit the genome of raspberry protoplasts, resulting in faster breeding times and reduced food waste.
Next-generation ‘molecular scissors’ may offer hope for chronic hepatitis B sufferers
Researchers have developed 'molecular scissors' that can precisely and permanently disable the hepatitis B virus's hidden genetic material. The treatment has shown promising results in laboratory tests and HBV-infected mice, with a 99% reduction in circulating viral DNA. This innovation represents a significant step towards a functiona...
AI meets CRISPR for precise gene editing
A research team developed a new method to precisely edit DNA by combining genetic engineering with artificial intelligence. The technique enables accurate modeling of human diseases and lays the groundwork for next-generation gene therapies.
Scientists achieve megabase-scale precision genome editing in eukaryotic cells
Researchers have developed novel methods to advance precise chromosomal manipulation by addressing challenges in the Cre-Lox system. Their innovations include asymmetric Lox site design and a protein-directed evolution system, enabling targeted integration of large DNA fragments up to 18.8 kb.
Prime editing treats childhood brain disease in mice
Researchers used prime editing to correct five different AHC-causing genetic mutations in mice, resulting in far fewer and less severe symptoms. The treatment successfully repaired up to 90% of treated cells, demonstrating its potential for treating people with this rare neurological disorder.
Genome editing corrected rare brain mutations in mice. Could it help fight neurological diseases?
Scientists successfully edited DNA directly in the brain to correct ultra-rare genetic mutations causing alternating hemiplegia of childhood. The technique improved symptoms and survival rates in mice, with implications for treating other rare genetic diseases.
Scientists uncover DNA secrets to bolster corn crop traits
Researchers at Rutgers University have discovered how specific sections of corn DNA control vital traits like plant architecture and pest resistance. The findings provide new insights for scientists to use innovative technologies to enhance corn crops.
Make-your-own weight-loss drug using an innovative genome editing approach
A team of researchers from The University of Osaka has made a breakthrough in weight loss treatment by developing a one-time genome editing approach that introduces a GLP-1 receptor agonist gene. This innovative method enables the body to produce its own weight-loss medication, reducing the need for regular injections.
Pusan National University researchers develop tool to improve CRISPR off-target predictions using genetic variants
Researchers developed Variant-aware Cas-OFFinder, a web-based tool that improves CRISPR accuracy by identifying off-target effects across genetic variations. The tool offers a significant step forward in personalized genome editing by incorporating genetic diversity directly into off-target predictions.
ERC Advanced Grant: Frank Buchholz (TUD) once again receives the highest endowed EU funding award for precise genome editing
Frank Buchholz's ERC project DC-PGE aims to develop fully programmable DNA editing enzymes that minimize off-target effects and increase safety in gene therapy. The goal is to create a platform for efficient and accurate genome editing tools to treat various genetic disorders.
Study finds ethical justification to eradicate certain harmful species
Researchers argue that deliberate full extinction might be acceptable in rare cases, but only with careful consideration of ecological and moral implications. The study calls for robust ethical safeguards and inclusive decision-making frameworks to guide the use of genetic modification technologies.
Can genome editing alone generate high-fertility clonal seeds?
A new apomixis system termed Fix4 achieves stable and heritable clonal seeds with normal seed-setting rates, overcoming the limitations of previous genome editing systems. This innovation has significant implications for accelerating the application of apomixis technology in hybrid rice production.
New gene editor enables greater precision
The evoCAST system enables precise insertion of entire genes into the human genome, overcoming a major challenge in gene therapy. This breakthrough could lead to more reliable treatments for diseases like cystic fibrosis and hemophilia.
Infant with rare, incurable disease is first to successfully receive personalized gene therapy treatment
A team of researchers has successfully treated an infant with a life-threatening, incurable genetic disease using personalized gene editing therapy. The infant, who was diagnosed shortly after birth, showed positive responses to the treatment and improved symptoms over time.
Danforth Technology Company launches genome editing startup
Spearhead Bio's TAHITI technology enables seamless integration of genes into crops, promising faster and cleaner path to crop improvement. The startup aims to generate next-generation improved crops with desired traits, improving speed to market and consumer acceptance.
New technology facilitates delivery of advanced medicines
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a technique to deliver gene editors and protein therapeutics to cells using engineered extracellular vesicles. The method shows promising results in animal studies, highlighting the potential for treating genetic diseases and neurological disorders.
Medication-induced sterol disruption: A silent threat to brain development and public health
Common prescription medications can disrupt sterol biosynthesis, potentially causing developmental disorders. The editorial highlights the need for mandatory sterol biosynthesis screening in clinical practice.
CABBI team deploys robotic lab to revolutionize plant bioengineering
Researchers use a new pipeline to make genetically engineered plants with improved oil production, reducing labor and time in the process. The FAST-PB platform integrates automation and single-cell lipidomics to accelerate plant transformation.
One-step creation of Cre-loxP organisms: precise control and modification of gene expression
Scientists developed a new technology to produce Cre-loxP organisms in a single step, reducing the need for crossbreeding and decreasing production time. The method involves introducing a TAx9 sequence to prevent Cre gene expression in E. coli bacteria, allowing for precise control and modification of gene expression.
CSHL and global collaborators map Solanum pan-genome
Scientists at CSHL and global collaborators have sequenced complete genomes for the Solanum genus, including tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants. The study reveals the importance of understanding paralog genes in predicting genome editing outcomes.
First mouse with two male parents to reach adulthood
Researchers successfully created a bi-paternal mouse by modifying genes involved in reproduction. The mice that reached adulthood exhibited altered growth and shortened lifespan, but could potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies for imprinting-related diseases.
Developing a CRISPR therapy for muscular dystrophy
Researchers have successfully developed a gene-editing approach using CRISPR-Cas9 to correct the genetic error causing dysferlin protein deficiency, a leading cause of muscular dystrophy. In new mouse models, they restored muscle function and regrowth after transplanting corrected cells.
Top five rising star Texas researchers named in 2025 Edith and Peter O’Donnell Awards by TAMEST
Five Texas researchers have been honored with the 2025 Edith and Peter O'Donnell Awards for their innovative breakthroughs in small cell lung cancer, lithium-ion battery technology, and galaxy discovery. Lauren Averett Byers is being recognized for her work on novel therapeutic strategies for SCLC, while Caitlin M. Casey is exploring p...