The Expanding Dissemination and Distribution Patterns of Diverse CRISPR Plasmids by Addgene

Area of Science:

• Genetics and Genomics
• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• CRISPR-based technologies have significantly advanced genome editing capabilities.
• Addgene has distributed over 15,000 CRISPR plasmids from 1,000+ labs to 5,000+ organizations worldwide.
• Demand for CRISPR plasmids continues to increase, indicating a rapidly evolving field.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze CRISPR plasmid distribution patterns over the past decade.
• To identify trends in the types of CRISPR effectors and their applications.
• To understand the global adoption and diversification of CRISPR technology.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of plasmid deposit and request data from Addgene.
• Categorization of CRISPR plasmids into nucleases, modulators, and chimeric effectors.
• Examination of request trends by region and application area.

Main Results:

• Robust demand exists for nucleases (Cas9, Cas12), modulators, and chimeric CRISPR effectors.
• Plasmid requests show a stable proportion for newly deposited constructs, indicating continuous innovation.
• Mammalian genome manipulation plasmids are most requested, followed by rising demand for plant and microbial applications.
• Global distribution spans approximately 100 countries, with increasing requests from regions focused on agriculture.

Conclusions:

• CRISPR technology adoption is widespread and diversifying globally.
• Ongoing development of novel CRISPR tools supports diverse applications in human health and agriculture.
• The increasing demand for plant and microbial CRISPR tools highlights regional needs and applications.