CRISPR-Cas Systems: From Genome Editing to Programmable Diagnostics
This seminal Science review by Knott and Doudna provides a comprehensive overview of CRISPR-Cas biology and its rapidly expanding biotechnological applications, from genome editing and transcriptional regulation to imaging and molecular diagnostics. The authors describe how the natural diversity and modularity of RNA-guided Cas enzymes have driven a revolution in nucleic acid manipulation. For laboratory professionals, the review is particularly relevant in framing CRISPR-based diagnostic platforms that are now entering clinical use.
The original study
CRISPR-Cas guides the future of genetic engineering.
- Authors
- Knott GJ, Doudna JA
- Journal
- Science (New York, N.Y.)
- Type
- Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S., Review
- PMID
- 30166482
Original abstract
The diversity, modularity, and efficacy of CRISPR-Cas systems are driving a biotechnological revolution. RNA-guided Cas enzymes have been adopted as tools to manipulate the genomes of cultured cells, animals, and plants, accelerating the pace of fundamental research and enabling clinical and agricultural breakthroughs. We describe the basic mechanisms that set the CRISPR-Cas toolkit apart from other programmable gene-editing technologies, highlighting the diverse and naturally evolved systems now functionalized as biotechnologies. We discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of CRISPR-Cas applications, from gene editing to transcriptional regulation, imaging, and diagnostics. Continuing functional dissection and an expanding landscape of applications position CRISPR-Cas tools at the cutting edge of nucleic acid manipulation that is rewriting biology.