Breakthrough Prize: Genome Editing with CRISPR-Cas9

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In summary, scientists have developed a new technology called CRISPR that allows them to precisely cut and replace specific sections of DNA in microorganisms and human cells. They suggest that this technology could soon be used to modify genes in human embryos. The speed and potential of this technology has received widespread recognition, with some calling it the biggest biotech discovery of the century.
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They crafted molecules that could enter a microbe and precisely snip its DNA at a location of the researchers’ choosing.

In January 2013, the scientists went one step further: They cut out a particular piece of DNA in human cells and replaced it with another one.

Writing last year in the journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, Motoko Araki and Tetsuya Ishii of Hokkaido University in Japan predicted that doctors will be able to use CRISPR to alter the genes of human embryos "in the immediate future."

Thanks to the speed of CRISPR research, the accolades have come quickly. Last year MIT Technology Review called CRISPR "the biggest biotech discovery of the century."

http://www.businessinsider.com/the-...-about-to-change-medicine-forever-2015-2?IR=T

 
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Interesting, this looks quite promising for gene-modified cell therapy if it can be shown to work as well as advertised.
 
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What are these molecular scissors that the narrator talks about?
 

1. What is the Breakthrough Prize for Genome Editing with CRISPR-Cas9?

The Breakthrough Prize is an award given to scientists who have made significant contributions to the field of genome editing with CRISPR-Cas9. It is considered one of the most prestigious awards in science and is awarded annually.

2. How does CRISPR-Cas9 work in genome editing?

CRISPR-Cas9 is a genome editing tool that allows scientists to make precise changes to the DNA of an organism. It uses a guide RNA to direct a Cas9 enzyme to a specific location in the DNA, where it makes a cut. This cut can then be used to insert, delete, or modify specific genes.

3. What are the potential applications of CRISPR-Cas9?

CRISPR-Cas9 has a wide range of potential applications, including treating genetic diseases, creating genetically modified organisms for agriculture, and developing new therapies for cancer and other diseases. It also has the potential to revolutionize the field of gene editing and make it more accessible and affordable for researchers.

4. What are the ethical concerns surrounding CRISPR-Cas9?

One of the main ethical concerns surrounding CRISPR-Cas9 is the potential for unintended consequences and off-target effects. There are also concerns about the use of this technology for non-medical purposes, such as creating "designer babies" or enhancing physical and cognitive traits.

5. Who has won the Breakthrough Prize for Genome Editing with CRISPR-Cas9?

The first Breakthrough Prize for Genome Editing with CRISPR-Cas9 was awarded in 2016 to a team of scientists including Jennifer Doudna, Emmanuelle Charpentier, and Feng Zhang. Since then, other scientists such as David Liu and Virginijus Šikšnys have also been recognized for their contributions to the field.

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