CRISPR-cas9 Gene Editing and its Applications

Image from free Wix Media Library

Introduction

Originating from DNA destruction systems in certain prokaryotes, Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) is an innovative sequence that allows for precise edits of gene sequences. CRISPR is known to be capable defending cells against pathogens, using CRISPR-associated enzymes to break down viral sequences attempting to infiltrate cells. From this information, researchers looked to CRISPR-cas9 as a "molecular scalpel" able to edit genes.

How CRISPR-cas9 can Edit Genes

Based on its capabilities, researchers acknowledge the possibility of genetic sequence splicing through utilization of Cas9, a CRISPR-associated enzyme, with synthetic CRISPR sequences. When a sequence is recognized in the CRISPR-synthetic library, Cas9 would break down the sequence, allowing genetic revisions (ScienceAlert Staff, 2019). This ability to revise genetic sequences offer crucial applications such as expanding organ transplantation and antibiotic options.

Organ Transplant Options

In the event of a donor shortage, organ transplants can be harvested from anatomically similar animals, such as pigs. The concern regarding this practice, though, is possible introduction of pathogens from pig donors to human recipients. Viruses with unknown risks, such as Porcine Endogenous Retroviruses, are embedded in pigs' genetic codes and can pose additional uncertainty for successful transplantations. However, CRISPR-Cas9 technology can possibly break down sequences associated with Porcine Endogenous Retroviruses. This could largely decrease the pathogenic risks of xenotransplantation (McRae, 2018). Ethical considerations cannot be ignored, though; Although xenotransplantation can save more human lives, the nature of xenotransplantation remains a widely contentious regarding its morality. Thus, it is crucial to conduct a risk-benefit analysis in order to address both sides of the issue.

Discovering Another Antibiotic Avenue

As a result of widespread antibiotic usage to neutralize bacterial infections, such as penicillin for staphylococcus, certain bacterium evolved, developing resistance to the effects of certain antibiotics. An example of a superbug is Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a gram-positive bacterium. As a result, it can cause serious infections and is difficult to treat. However, researchers at the University of Manchester utilized bioinformatics and in vitro experiments, in conjunction with CRISPR-cas9 technology to discover another avenue for antibiotic production. Through this combination, a biosynthetic pathway in the antibiotic malonomycin was discovered. Mickiefield, a Manchester researcher, stated: "We are now optimistic that our findings might lead to the discovery of new antibiotics, and may also provide new ways of making antibiotics which are urgently needed to combat emerging drug-resistant pathogens" (Entine, 2021). Though, further testing is needed for reliable determination on the application of the biosynthetic pathway to antibiotic production (Entine, 2021).

Conclusion

The molecular capabilities of CRISPR-cas9 allow for potentially promising applications to present-day problems such as superbugs and organ donor shortages. Through time, our understanding of CRISPR-cas9 technologies will improve in practicality and ethicality. Through acknowledgement of technological implications, smoother and grander implementations are possible in the future if CRISPR-cas9 leaves its testing phase.

References

Entine, J. (2021, March 15). Using CRISPR to fight antibiotic-resistant “superbugs.” Genetic Literacy Project. https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2021/03/12/using-crispr-to-fight-antibiotic-resistant-superbugs/

McRae, M. (2018, April 6). CRISPR is already changing our world, here’s how. ScienceAlert. https://www.sciencealert.com/2018-summary-crispr-gene-editing-technology-advances

ScienceAlert Staff. (2019, May 13). What is CRISPR gene editing?. ScienceAlert. https://www.sciencealert.com/crispr-gene-editing