CRISPR-Cas Effector Proteins for Precise Nucleic Acid Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CRISPR-Cas systems face challenges in efficiently targeting and modifying specific nucleic acid sequences, particularly in complex genomic environments.
Innovation Solution
The development of RNA-guided CRISPR-Cas effector proteins and ribonucleoprotein complexes, which include a CRISPR-Cas effector protein and a guide RNA, to specifically target and modify target nucleic acids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If current CRISPR-Cas systems are used to target and modify nucleic acid sequences, then modification capability is achieved, but efficiency and precision are insufficient in complex genomic environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the physical and chemical properties of the CRISPR-Cas system components. Specifically, it optimizes the guide RNA sequence parameters, Cas protein structure parameters, and reaction condition parameters (temperature, pH, ionic strength) to enhance both the precision of target recognition and the efficiency of modification in complex genomic environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by creating a ribonucleoprotein complex that combines the Cas protein with guide RNA and additional accessory proteins or modified nucleic acid components. This composite structure enhances the system's ability to distinguish target sequences from off-target sequences while improving modification efficiency through synergistic interactions between components
2Measurement precision
If CRISPR-Cas systems are designed for high specificity, then target recognition accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the CRISPR-Cas system into modular functional domains: the guide RNA segment for target recognition, the Cas protein segment for cleavage activity, and optional accessory segments for enhanced specificity. This modular segmentation allows each component to be independently optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system manageability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a core CRISPR-Cas platform that can recognize and bind to diverse target sequences through programmable guide RNA, while maintaining a consistent structural and functional framework. This multi-functional design enables the system to achieve high target recognition accuracy across different genomic contexts without requiring entirely separate systems for each application
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
These complexes enable precise and efficient modification of target nucleic acids by providing sequence specificity through the guide RNA, thereby overcoming the limitations of existing CRISPR-Cas systems.
Implementation Method 1
a guide RNA, which includes a segment that binds Cas proteins and a segment that binds to a target nucleic acid
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides RNA-guided CRISPR-Cas effector proteins, nucleic acids encoding same, and compositions comprising same. The present disclosure provides ribonucleoprotein complexes comprising: an RNA-guided CRISPR-Cas effector protein of the present disclosure; and a guide RNA. The present disclosure provides methods of modifying a target nucleic acid, using an RNA-guided CRISPR-Cas effector protein of the present disclosure and a guide RNA.