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Genetic engineering is the act of modifying the genetic makeup of an organism. Modifications can be generated by methods such as gene targeting, nuclear transplantation, transfection of synthetic chromosomes or viral insertion. Selective breeding is not considered a form of genetic engineering.
By developing a modular system for precision epigenome editing, we were able to delineate the causal and quantitative role of chromatin modifications in transcription regulation. The precise effect of chromatin modifications is influenced by multiple contextual factors, including the underlying DNA sequence, transcription factor occupancy and genomic positioning.
To advance the toolset for controlling plant gene expression, we developed a CRISPR interference-based platform for the construction of synthetic Boolean logic gates that is functional in multiple plant species. These genetic circuits are programmable and reversible in nature, which will enable spatiotemporal control of plant responses to dynamic cues.
An antibody–drug conjugate that targets the pan-haematopoietic marker CD45 combined with transplanted stem cells engineered to be shielded from it can eradicate leukaemic cells while preserving haematopoiesis.
This Review discusses the use of pig models in animal research for cardiovascular diseases, highlighting their advantages over rodent models and suggesting the need for standardized models to enhance clinical translation and target potential treatments.
By developing a modular system for precision epigenome editing, we were able to delineate the causal and quantitative role of chromatin modifications in transcription regulation. The precise effect of chromatin modifications is influenced by multiple contextual factors, including the underlying DNA sequence, transcription factor occupancy and genomic positioning.
To advance the toolset for controlling plant gene expression, we developed a CRISPR interference-based platform for the construction of synthetic Boolean logic gates that is functional in multiple plant species. These genetic circuits are programmable and reversible in nature, which will enable spatiotemporal control of plant responses to dynamic cues.
In this Tools of the Trade article, Victor Tieu describes the development of MEGA, a platform that exploits the RNA-targeting capability of CRISPR–Cas13d and demonstrates its use to improve the anti-tumour activity of CAR T cells.
Rhizosphere microbiomes are shaped by both the environment and the host. A recent study of the maize microbiome reveals how plants recruit a specific microbiome to alleviate abiotic stress, and provides clues for precision microbiome engineering in agriculture.
CRISPR–Cas12a was used to directly replace mouse antibody variable chain genes with human versions in primary B cells. The edited cells underwent affinity maturation in vivo, improving the potency of HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies without loss of bioavailability. Affinity maturation of edited cells also enables new vaccine models and adaptive B cell therapies.