Scientists at Bose Institute create glowing protein to monitor gene editing

image credit- shutterstock

Scientists at the Bose Institute in Kolkata have created a CRISPR protein that can help scientists observe molecular scissors called the Cas9 enzyme as it enables them to edit the genome using the CRISPR – Cas9system for the treatment of genetic diseases, including cancer.

CRISPR-Cas9 was designed to cut and correct DNA with precision. Scientists have not been able to observe Cas9 in real time in living cells, however. Traditional detection methods rely on connecting or breaking open cells, making this process impossible to track.

In the new study, the researchers have combined Cas9 with a split nano-luciferase enzyme derived from a deep-sea shrimp protein to create a bio-luminous version of Cas9 called GloCas9, which glows inside cells.

By combining gene editing with light emission, GlockaS9 is leading the way in the emerging field of theratracking, a unique example of looking at molecular gene therapy in a moving state. This invention brings us closer to a future where scientists will not only be able to fine-tune genes but also witness the process of treatment firsthand.