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Molecular Scissors

All articles tagged with #molecular scissors

Unraveling CRISPR's Molecular Scissors: A Genesis Exploration

Originally Published 2 years ago — by Phys.org

Researchers have traced the origins of CRISPR-Cas9, a powerful gene editing tool, to transposons, or "jumping genes," which carry RNA-guided DNA nucleases. By studying the movement of transposons in bacteria, scientists discovered that the DNA-cutting scissors prevent the extinction of transposons by guiding a copy of the transposon back to its original location after cutting the DNA. This "cut and copy" strategy allows transposons to proliferate and spread. The findings suggest that there may be other systems similar to CRISPR-Cas9 waiting to be discovered, which could be used for genome engineering in human cells.

science science-and-technology crispr gene-editing genome-engineering molecular-scissors science-and-technology transposons

Unveiling the 'Molecular Scissors': Researchers Capture Atomic View of Synthetic DNA

Originally Published 2 years ago — by Phys.org

Researchers at West Virginia University have successfully captured the atomic view of synthetic DNA, known as DNAzymes, which have scissor-like functions. By understanding the structure and catalytic abilities of these synthetic DNA molecules, scientists hope to develop new technologies for medical diagnoses and treatments. The findings provide insights into how chemically active DNA can promote unique functions and pave the way for advancements in health and diagnostics. The researchers aim to improve the efficiency of the technology for potential applications in treating diseases such as retinal degeneration and cancer.

science science-and-technology catalysis disease-treatment medical-technology molecular-scissors science-and-technology synthetic-dna