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This illustration shows, in simplified terms, how the CRISPR-Cas9 system can be used as a gene-editing tool. Frame 1 shows the two components of the CRISPR system: a strong cutting device (an enzyme called Cas9 that can cut through a double strand of DNA), and a finely tuned targeting device (a small strand of RNA programmed to look for a specific DNA sequence). In frame 2, the CRISPR machine locates the target DNA sequence once inserted into a cell. In frame 3, the Cas9 enzyme cuts both strands of the DNA. Frame 4 shows a repaired DNA strand with new genetic material that researchers can introduce, which the cell automatically incorporates into the gap when it repairs the broken DNA. For an explanation and overview of the CRISPR-Cas9 system, see the iBiology video. Download the individual frames: Frame 1, Frame 2, Frame 3, and Frame 4.
National Institute of General Medical Sciences.
Illustration
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