Saving lives with technology: CRISPR-Cas 9
Saving lives with technology: CRISPR-Cas 9
The previous blog described possibilities for efficient usage of the specific technology as CRISPR. In this article, I will try to explain the way how system CRISPR-Cas9 functions.
Today we can approach a large library of gRNA sequences, each of them specific for different viruses, organisms, set of genes, etc. Bases in RNA are described with letters A, G, C, U and they can be paired: A with U and G with U. This is the simplified core of pairing and every single technique is at some point relying on it. CRISPR-Cas 9 enzyme is forming a complex with two small RNAs to cut DNA. The disadvantage of this system is that it cuts DNA near the recognition site and leaves sticky ends, where often mutations happen.
Later, one controlled strand will be used to form a library because we already have determined its content. Another, suitable pair to this strand from our sample DNA will be attached afterward. The system can multiprocess, targeting not one but many genes. The following disadvantages are changed with the new system, Cpf1 which can cut DNA further from the recognition site and leaves no sticky ends, but overhangs. This is more convenient for scientists while attaching a new strand. A known sequence where systems are attached is called PAM.
Knowing all the steps, advantages and disadvantages bring a new era in discovering infectious diseases. Libraries of sequenced genomes from the specific parasites preserve necessary sequences that researchers can use in testing with CRISPR technology, This is a relatively new chapter in Molecular biology and it is expected to reach its highest potential in the next few years.
Besides discovering infectious diseases, CRISPR technologies could help to restore life which was destroyed in human activity, industry development and destruction of the environment.
Editing genes could protect life in a way where mistakes will be controlled and repaired, but there comes another set of questions-how to fit all factors between scientific moral/ethic and urge to protect life?
