CRISPR's next advance is bigger than you think | Jennifer Doudna

CRISPR: A Revolutionary Tool for Editing Genes

CRISPR is a revolutionary technology that allows precise editing of genes in living organisms. Developed from the study of bacteria fighting viral infections, CRISPR functions like a word processor, enabling the removal, replacement, or alteration of specific genes. It has already demonstrated success in curing diseases like sickle cell anemia and developing hardy crops. The next frontier for CRISPR lies in the editing of entire microbial communities called microbiomes. Dysfunctional microbiomes are linked to diverse diseases and contribute to climate change through methane emissions. CRISPR, coupled with metagenomics technology, offers the possibility of precision microbiome editing, creating transformative solutions for human health and the planet.