This technology is a CRISPR transposon-based system to generate genetic knockouts or introduce new functions in bacteria in situ.
Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR), along with a guide RNA and a Cas enzyme, is a technique that has been developed to target and alter DNA sites. Currently, the most common technology used is a CRISPR-Cas9 system that can cut and insert new sequences into DNA to alter a living organism’s genome. However, the integration efficiency of new insertions in this system is low. There is a need for a technology that increases the efficiency and integration of molecular cargo into the genome for suitable therapeutic development.
This technology is a CRISPR-associated transposon (CAST) system that uses a conjugative vector with a CRISPR transposon and genetic payload to generate genetic knockouts or introductions in bacterial non-coding regions in situ. Genetic payloads can be expressed from the target’s genome for increased genomic stability in the form of nanobodies, binding proteins, enzymes, and other proteins of different types and sizes. This technology has been engineered to block virulence of Shiga toxin-producing bacteria. Compared to previous technologies, this CAST system is more efficient at inserting sequences and molecular cargo into the genome at multiple genomic sites. This technology can be adapted to generate many different genetic knockouts or introductions for other bacterial disease treatments.
This technology has been validated in mice infected with Shiga toxin-producing bacteria.
Patent Pending
IR CU24061
Licensing Contact: Cynthia Lang
