[19] CRISPR:Cas9 and Base Editors

Question 1

What is CRISPR/Cas9?

Answer 1

A gene-editing technology that enables scientists to cut and paste specific portions of DNA.

Question 2

What are Base Editors?

Answer 2

A newer class of gene-editing tools that enable direct, irreversible conversion of one DNA base into another at a targeted genomic locus, without requiring double-strand DNA breaks.

Question 3

What are the components of CRISPR/Cas9?

Answer 3

• Guide RNA (gRNA)
• Enzyme called Cas9.

Question 4

What is the process used by Base Editors?

Answer 4

Base Editors use a modified version of Cas9 to target a specific DNA sequence and an enzyme that can convert one DNA base into another.

Question 5

What are the applications of CRISPR/Cas9 and Base Editors?

Answer 5

• Biomedical research
• Drug development
• Treating genetic diseases.

Question 6

How do CRISPR/Cas9 and Base Editors differ?

Answer 6

Unlike CRISPR/Cas9, Base Editors can edit DNA without causing double-strand breaks, reducing the risk of unintended mutations.

Question 7

What are the challenges associated with CRISPR/Cas9 and Base Editors?

Answer 7

• Ethical considerations
• Off-target effects
• Delivery of these tools into cells.

Question 8

How does CRISPR/Cas9 work?

Answer 8

CRISPR/Cas9 uses a guide RNA to locate the desired gene sequence and an enzyme called Cas9 to cut the DNA at the targeted location.

Question 9

How do Base Editors work?

Answer 9

Base Editors target a specific DNA sequence using a modified version of Cas9 and an enzyme that can convert one DNA base into another.

Question 10

Why are Base Editors considered safer than CRISPR/Cas9?

Answer 10

Base Editors reduce the risk of unintended mutations by editing DNA without causing double-strand breaks.