Researchers Knockout Multiple Genes in Rabbit via CRISPR-Cas9

The CRISPR-Cas9 system has been widely used for single or multiple gene mutation in a variety of organisms. Disruption of multiple homologous genes, which have similar DNA sequences and function, is required for the study of the desired phenotype. To test whether the CRISPR-Cas9 system works on the mutation of multiple homologous genes Huan Liu from Jilin University in China designed a single guide RNA (sgRNA) that targets three fucosyltransferase encoding genes, FUT1, FUT2 and SEC1 in rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

The team was successful in achieving triple gene mutation of FUT1, FUT2 and SEC1 simultaneously via a sgRNA mediated CRISPR-Cas9 system. Significantly reduced serum fucosyltransferases enzyme activity was observed in the triple mutation rabbits.

This study provides the first evidence of multiple homologous gene knockout achieved efficiently via CRISPR-Cas9 system in mammals. This would greatly assist genotype to phenotype studies of homologous genes in the future.

For more on this study, read the article in Gene.