Articles about basic genome editing concepts
U.S. Scientists Able to Alter Genes of Human Embryos
U.S. scientists have succeeded in altering the genes of a human embryo to correct a disease-causing mutation, making it possible to prevent the defect from being passed on to future generations.
What Is CRISPR? Genome editing explained
CRISPR technology is a simple yet powerful tool for editing genomes. It allows researchers to easily alter DNA sequences and modify gene function. Its many potential applications include correcting genetic defects, treating and preventing the spread of diseases and improving crops. However, its promise also raises ethical concerns.
In popular usage, "CRISPR" (pronounced "crisper") is shorthand for "CRISPR-Cas9." CRISPRs are specialized stretches of DNA. The protein Cas9 (or "CRISPR-associated") is an enzyme that acts like a pair of molecular scissors, capable of cutting strands of DNA.
What is CRISPR-Cas9?
CRISPR-Cas9 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.
What exactly is genetically modified food?
You’ve probably seen and heard a lot about genetically modified food in recent months: on the news, among friends, even as a label on the food you eat. But for all the information and opinions out there, there’s still very little explanation about what exactly genetically modified organisms are. To get a good answer, it’s helpful to talk with someone who actually makes them.
Matthew Willmann is director of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Plant Transformation Facility at Cornell University. He is someone who makes genetically engineered plants. Not for food and not for commercial purposes—Willmann currently uses biotechnology to modify crops for research only.
CRISPR 101: A crash course on the revolutionary gene editing tool that’s changing the world
For something that’s been called “a household name for molecular biologists,” many of you have probably never heard of CRISPR, and don’t know why you should be excited (or, possibly, terrified). It’s all about advanced gene therapy and splicing – and it’s bringing sci-fi ideas straight into reality. Here’s a quick FAQ on the science behind CRISPR and why the world is paying such close attention.
A crisp intro to CRISPR, the gene-editing tool shaking up science
How can one technology potentially do so many, and such world-altering, things? This video explain what CRISPR actually is, how exactly it works, and why so many scientists believe it's such a promising tool.
A Visual Guide to Genetic Modification
An infographic from Scientific American that compares CRISPR technology to other GM methods used in crops