Tag

Microbial Defense

All articles tagged with #microbial defense

science-and-technology2 years ago

"Revolutionary Algorithm Uncovers Abundance of Gene-Editing Enzymes in Environmental DNA"

Researchers have developed a new algorithm called FLSHclust to search for CRISPR-Cas-like systems in genomes, leading to the discovery of 188 new CRISPR-Cas systems. These systems include enzymes with never-before-seen domains and fusions with known genes, as well as proteins with different functionalities linked to CRISPR arrays. The study highlights the vastness and untapped potential of Earth's biodiversity and provides a starting point for the development of new biotechnologies.

science2 years ago

Unveiling the Hidden Potential of CRISPR-Cas System

Scientists led by Professor Dr. Alexander Probst have discovered that archaea, microorganisms similar to bacteria, use the CRISPR-Cas system to combat parasites. Through genomic analysis of over 7,000 genomes, the researchers found that archaea incorporate parasitic DNA into their own genomes. When attacked by parasites with matching DNA, the CRISPR system recognizes and decomposes the foreign genetic material. This finding not only sheds light on the defense mechanisms of microorganisms but also has implications for understanding symbiotic relationships and important metabolic processes in ecosystems.