We present an algorithm, SComatic, that can be used to directly detect somatic mutations in single-cell data sets without using a reference sample. This method opens the possibility of studying clonal relationships among cells, mutational processes at single-cell resolution, and the impact of somatic mutations on cell function in development and disease.

TnpB proteins are hypercompact RNA-guided DNA endonucleases. By systematically mining and characterizing TnpB proteins from the IS605 family, we identified potent genome editors and established a framework for high-throughput annotation and screening of TnpB systems in prokaryotic genomes.

Generating A-to-C transversions in specific targets via base editing technology has been challenging. By fusing an evolved alkyladenine DNA glycosylase with an engineered adenine deaminase TadA-8e variant and nickase Cas9, we have developed A-to-C base editors that generate precise and efficient A-to-C transversions in cells and in mouse embryos, expanding the possible applications of base editing.

Wearable sensors inform on aquaculture and marine-conservation strategies.