Scientists at Vilnius University’s Life Sciences Center have discovered a new way to silence specific genes without cutting DNA. Led by Prof. Patrick Pausch, the research team has developed a system that uses an RNA-guided “effector” complex to recruit an enzyme called DinG, which moves along DNA and silences targeted genes in a more subtle manner.
Unlike traditional CRISPR gene-editing systems, this new system does not rely on cutting DNA. Instead, it recognizes the precise location of the target gene and uses two proteins (Cas8 and Cas5) to find a specific sequence motif adjacent to an RNA guide’s complementary target DNA. Once both proteins recognize this sequence, they melt the double-stranded DNA for target sequence interrogation.
The system relies on the formation of R-loops – open DNA structures where RNA binds – signaling the system to initiate gene silencing. The DinG enzyme enhances gene suppression by unwinding the DNA strands, allowing the system to exert its effect over a longer DNA sequence.
This discovery opens doors to future applications in genome editing without the risk of DNA cuts, enabling more precise tools for research and biotechnology. Prof. Pausch believes this new approach could benefit society by enabling safer genetic modifications.
Source: https://phys.org/news/2024-11-crispr-gene-silencing-doesnt-dna.html