Since DNA was discovered in the year 1953, genetic science has undergone many changes. The most exciting discovery among them includes the ability to change the DNA through a process known as gene editing. This technology has huge potential, starting from the treatment of genetic diseases to controlling pesticides in food crop production. Let us learn about the gene editing process through CRISPR technology.
Roles and Functions of Gene Editing
Gene Editing is a process where the DNA can be changed to one or more points. A single base of a gene can be changed or scientists can insert a new gene altogether. They use many techniques for gene editing and CRISPR technology is one of the most popular among them. Assisted by a single strand of RNA, the Cas9 enzyme acts just like a scissor that can divide the DNA and edit it according to the requirements.
Advantages of Gene Editing
When any person possesses a genetic disease, for example, sickle cell disease, gene editing through CRISPR technology can help future generations with the treatment. When scientists change the DNA of the crops, they also hope to create drought-resilient crops in the near future where the crops will be adapted to climate changes. For these following functions, the technology can be widely used
- Cloning of extinct and endangered species
- Treating genetical and terminal disease
- Creating bacteria that can digest the bio-degradable
- Creating crops that can be grown in tough climate conditions
- Producing bio-fuels that are sustainable
- Removing the diseases that are insect and animal-borne
Gene Editing With CRISPR Technology
CRISPR technology was discovered through yogurt in the year 2005. A bacterium that absorbs the lactose from the milk and excretes the lactic acid is known as the Streptococcus thermophilus. In the year 2005, a young microbiologist discovered that CRISPR includes odd portions of the DNA sequences that are repeating. The entire cheese and yogurt culture has been protected by naturally occurring CRISPR technology. It has been proved by scientists, that half of the bacterial kingdom includes CRISPR. The primitive immune system in humans is also suspected to be involved with the CRISPR technology.
Restrictions under Current Regulations in the US
US Government has imposed some regulations on applying the CRISPR technology during pregnancy. Starting the journey of pregnancy with genetically modified embryos has been banned.
Future of CRISPR Technology
CRISPR technology can provide a physical reality by weaving seamless fabric in our bodies. When a genetic problem has been found remotely, the technology will be applied for solving the problems in the future. If you are taking the industrial sector, microbes can be re-programmed by scientists and genetic engineering students. CRISPR will thus increase molecules and designer chemicals that are helpful in biorefineries.
Conclusion
This article helps you to learn about the gene editing process with the help of CRISPR technology. To improve the immune system, and to eradicate genetic and terminal diseases, the technology is widely used throughout the world. Though the technology is a bit controversial and the altered embryos are illegal during pregnancy, there are many possibilities for developments in curing genetic diseases.
