Two new complimentary studies have utilized CRISPR gene editing technology to explore how specific genes affect wing pattern variation in butterflies. By selectively knocking out single genes and observing the effects, scientists have uncovered a key insight into how broad biodiversity can evolve.
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It takes cross-breeding to turn flowers certain colors, but scientists can dig right in and change them at a genetic level much faster. Using the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, scientists have changed the flowers of the Japanese morning glory from its usual violet to a pure white.
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A few years ago we saw the launch of a video game called Eterna, which was designed to harness the brain power of thousands of gamers. A new follow-up challenges players to create a new RNA molecule that can function as an on/off switch for the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing process.
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A pair of independent studies from two teams used CRISPR technology to genetically alter ants to remove their ability to "smell," which resulted in their inability to interact with normal ants and produced changes in their brains.
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The latest landmark development in the field of animal to human organ transplantation comes from a team of scientists who successfully created genetically modified piglets free of 25 retroviruses that are generally present in pigs but thought to cause harm to humans.
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A team at the University of Chicago recently developed a process to deliver CRISPR-based gene therapy to mice via skin transplants. The technique was effective in treating diabetes, but potentially can be utilized for a wide variety of diseases.
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The ultimate goal of the gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 would be using it to prevent diseases in the first place. Now a trial has successfully repaired a disease-causing mutation in a human embryo, which would prevent that gene from being passed down to future generations.
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DARPA has just announced the Safe Genes program, a project that is set to invest US$65 million over four years in seven teams that will investigate ways to make gene editing technologies safer, more targeted and potentially even reversible.
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There’s a mind-boggling amount of data naturally stored in the genome of every organism, with far better density and durability. Now a Harvard team has created a biological hard drive, using the CRISPR gene-editing tool to record information to (and retrieve it from) the genome of living bacteria.
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A recent study claiming CRISPR gene-editing can cause unintended mutations has sent shockwaves through the scientific community. Critics are now calling into question the veracity of the study, claiming it is filled with flawed assumptions.
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