CRISPR SOLUTIONS

Various approaches have been developed to genetically program cells based on their modes of action, such as loss-of-function (LOF) or gain-of-function (GOF) of genes. RNA interference (RNAi) method has been the predominant tool used to repress gene expression. However,  because RNAi-induced mRNA knocking-down and protein depletion are incomplete, improved genome modification platforms are needed to efficiently and specifically delete gene’s  expression. Among the programmable genome editing methods such as zinc finger and transcription activator-like effector (TALE) nucleases, the RNA-guided CRISPR/Cas9 technology is the most exciting platform that has ever been established.

This genetic engineering approach is very efficient and scalable for genome-wide mutations through sequence-specific single guide RNAs (gRNA) to induce double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs) for non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or homologous directed repair (HDR) along with donor DNA segments. Together, using this genome editing approach it is possible to either introduce frameshift or recombining mutations (insertion, replacement or deletion) into the specific target region.

Indeed, the CRISPR/Cas9 system has revolutionized the manipulation of gene expression or regulation and enabled the interrogation of gene functions in insect or plant cells, bacteria or single-celled eukaryotes, mammalian germline and cell lines. Engineering via CRISPR/Cas9 systems holds great promise for cell-based therapies for cancer, microbial infections, and immune deficiencies, autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases.

We very welcome scientists, biology or medical students and biohackers who want to benefit how to develop and utilize their own CRISPR systems at any target cells to our CRISPR Solutions Workshops (CSW).