CRISPR Application to Lower Incidence of Antimicrobial Resistance
May 31, 2023 |
Scientists from the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom published the results of their study that explained how they used CRISPR-Cas gene editing system to engineer a plasmid that specifically targets the resistance gene for Gentamicin, a commonly used antibiotic.
Resistance among bacteria is developed when resistant genes are transported between hosts. This can occur in circular strands of DNA called plasmids, in which resistance can easily spread and replicate between bacteria such as in human bodies and environmental settings like waterways. This became the focus of the scientific study wherein the researchers modified a plasmid that protected its host cell from developing resistance using gene editing technology to target specific sequences of its DNA. The results showed that the plasmid targeted antimicrobial resistant genes in hosts to which it transferred, effectively reversing their resistance.
The new tool is a promising feature that exploits a bacterial immune system as a gene editing tool to reduce antimicrobial resistance. Resistance to antibiotics is considered a major global threat as it causes millions of deaths annually around the world.
Details of the study can be found in Microbiology. Further information was released by the University of Exeter.
|
You might also like:
- CRISPR-Cas13a Shows Efficient Phage Genome Editing
- All-in-one Plasmid CRISPR-Cas9 System Allows Rapid Genome Editing of B. subtilis
- CRISPR SWAPnDROP Enables Efficient Large-Scale Interspecies Gene Transfer
Biotech Updates is a weekly newsletter of ISAAA, a not-for-profit organization. It is distributed for free to over 22,000 subscribers worldwide to inform them about the key developments in biosciences, especially in biotechnology. Your support will help us in our mission to feed the world with knowledge. You can help by donating as little as $10.
-
See more articles:
-
Gene Editing Supplement (May 31, 2023)
-
Research and Tools
- New Gene Editing Method Can Reveal Roles and Properties of Duplicated Plant Genes
- IGI Scientists Make Strides in Protecting Rice from Drought
- Rapid CRISPR-Cas9 Knock-in System Found Effective for Vertebrate Model
- CRISPR Application to Lower Incidence of Antimicrobial Resistance
-
Public Acceptance and Engagement
- Study Pinpoints Public Trust Building Priorities of Gene Editing Key Actors
- Paper Highlights Public Acceptance of Gene-edited Foods
-
Read the latest: - Biotech Updates (October 30, 2024)
- Gene Editing Supplement (October 30, 2024)
- Gene Drive Supplement (February 22, 2023)
-
Subscribe to BU: - Share
- Tweet