CRISPR - Genetics

What does CRISPR stand for?

Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats.

Who discovered CRISPR?

Discovered by Yoshizumi Ishino in 1987 and developed as a genome-editing tool by Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna.

In what organism was CRISPR discovered?

Escherichia coli.

Why did CRISPR originally evolve in prokaryotes?

As a bacterial immune system to protect against viral infections by recognizing and cutting the DNA of invading phages.

Name one way CRISPR can be used.

Gene editing: Modifying or correcting genetic sequences in organisms.

What are guide RNAs?

Synthetic or natural RNA molecules that direct the Cas9 enzyme to a specific DNA sequence for cutting.

What does the CAS protein enzyme do?

Acts as molecular scissors, cutting DNA at precise locations specified by the guide RNA.

Why is CRISPR considered a powerful technology?

It allows for precise, efficient, and cost-effective editing of specific DNA sequences.

What ethical questions does CRISPR raise?

Use in human germline editing, designer babies, unintended genetic consequences, and unequal access.

How can plasmids be acquired by bacteria?

Through conjugation, transformation, or transduction.

What is a plasmid?

A circular, double-stranded DNA molecule independent of chromosomal DNA in bacteria.

How are plasmids involved in antibiotic resistance?

They carry antibiotic resistance genes and can transfer them between bacteria.

Define 'synteny.'

Conserved blocks of genetic loci across different species.

What is a Robertsonian translocation?

A chromosomal rearrangement where two acrocentric chromosomes fuse at their centromeres.

Why do phages have potential advantages over antibiotics?

Specificity, ability to evolve against resistance, and low side effects.

What happens to interphase nuclei during FISH?

Chromatin is less condensed, showing dispersed signals.

What are FISH probes?

Labeled DNA or RNA sequences that bind to specific genomic regions for detection via fluorescence microscopy.

What is gene correction in the context of CRISPR?

Repairing faulty genes to treat genetic disorders.

What human disorders is CRISPR being used to address?

Sickle cell anemia, beta-thalassemia, Leber’s congenital amaurosis, certain cancers, and Huntington's disease.

What is the role of efflux pumps in antibiotic resistance?

They remove antibiotics from the cell.

What does CRISPR technology allow researchers to do?

Precisely edit DNA sequences for genetic research, medicine, and agriculture.

How do Robertsonian translocations affect meiosis?

They can lead to nonviable gametes or aneuploidy due to chromosomal misalignment.