CRISPR-Cas 9

Why in news?

• Two women -- Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna -- were awarded the 2020 Nobel Prize for chemistry for developing the method known as Crispr/Cas9 that can be used to change the DNA of animals, plants and microorganisms with extremely high precision.

About CRISPR-Cas 9

• CRISPR-Cas 9 is a unique technology that enables geneticists and medical researchers to edit parts of the genome by removing, adding or altering sections of the DNA sequence.
• It is currently the simplest, most versatile and precise method of genetic manipulation and allows researchers to easily alter DNA sequences and modify gene function.
• CRISPR-Cas9 system consists of two key molecules that introduce a change or mutation into the DNA.
  • Enzyme called Cas9 which acts as a pair of molecular scissors cuts at specific locations in the genome.
  •  Another guide RNA or gRNA guides Cas9 to pre-designed sequence i.e. to the right part of the genome
• The CRISPR technology can detect specific sequences of DNA within a gene and uses the enzyme functioning as molecular scissors to snip it.
• This editing process has a wide variety of applications including basic biological research, development of biotechnology products, and treatment of diseases.
• The technology can also be configured for detection of multiple  pathogens.

PRELIMS QUESTION

The term "CRISPR-CAS 9" has been in news recently. What is it?
(a)A Gene editing Technique
(b)A new asteroid in solar system
(c)A space craft sent to Pluto
(d)A new method of treating E-waste

Answer to Prelims Question