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CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing to Make Conditional Mutants of Human Malaria Parasite P. falciparum
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Can CRISPR help in the fight against parasitic worms?

Paul McVeigh1, Aaron G Maule1

  • 1School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom.

Elife
|February 1, 2019
PubMed

Insights

CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing is now possible in flatworms. This breakthrough opens new avenues for studying these dangerous human parasites.

Area of Science:

  • Biotechnology
  • Parasitology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Flatworms are significant human parasites.
  • Previous research on flatworm genetics was limited.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report the first successful application of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in flatworms.
  • To establish a foundation for future genetic studies in these organisms.

Main Methods:

  • CRISPR/Cas9 system delivery into flatworm embryos.
  • Validation of genome editing events.

Main Results:

  • Demonstrated successful CRISPR/Cas9 mediated genome editing in flatworms.
  • Confirmed the potential for targeted genetic modifications.

Conclusions:

  • CRISPR/Cas9 technology is a viable tool for flatworm research.
  • This advancement promises to accelerate the study of flatworm biology and control strategies.
Keywords:
CRISPR/Cas9Opisthorchis viverriniSchistosoma mansonicancergene editinginfectious diseasemicrobiologyparasitic worms

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