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Targeted genome editing in primate embryos
1Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
Abstract:
Mosaic mutations and off-target effects caused by CRISPR/Cas9 have led to concerns about the efficiency and specificity of this new technique in non-human primates and other large animals. Here we discuss recent findings from primate embryos, with a focus on the technical issues CRISPR/Cas9 faces before producing non-human primate models of human diseases.
Insights
CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing faces challenges with mosaic mutations and off-target effects in non-human primates. These technical issues must be addressed for creating accurate primate models of human diseases.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Primate Research
Background:
- CRISPR/Cas9 is a powerful gene-editing tool.
- Concerns exist regarding its efficiency and specificity in large animals, particularly non-human primates.
- Mosaic mutations and off-target effects are key issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss recent findings on CRISPR/Cas9 in primate embryos.
- To highlight technical challenges in using CRISPR/Cas9 for disease modeling in non-human primates.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent findings in primate embryo research.
- Focus on technical aspects of CRISPR/Cas9 application.
Main Results:
- CRISPR/Cas9 application in primate embryos results in mosaic mutations.
- Off-target mutations are observed, impacting specificity.
- Technical hurdles remain for efficient and precise gene editing.
Conclusions:
- CRISPR/Cas9 efficiency and specificity are critical concerns for non-human primate research.
- Addressing mosaicism and off-target effects is essential for developing reliable primate models of human diseases.
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