The Diversifying Distribution Trends of Maturing CRISPR Technologies by Addgene

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Biotechnology

Background:

• The development of Cas9-based CRISPR technologies in 2012 catalyzed significant advancements in genome editing.
• Addgene, a nonprofit plasmid repository, has been instrumental in disseminating CRISPR tools globally, supporting research growth.
• Over 20,000 CRISPR plasmids from 1,000+ labs have been distributed more than 300,000 times worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze trends in CRISPR technology adoption and application based on plasmid distribution data.
• To highlight the diversification of CRISPR effectors, editing modalities, and host organisms.
• To assess Addgene's role in facilitating global access to genome editing tools.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of Addgene's plasmid deposit and distribution data.
• Tracking trends in CRISPR effector types, editing methods (e.g., base editing, prime editing), and target organisms.
• Examination of deposited plasmid types (guide RNA, HDR templates, backbones) and requested formats (lentiviral).

Main Results:

• Significant diversification observed in CRISPR effectors (Cas9, Cas12, etc.) and editing modalities (base editing, prime editing, epigenetic modification, CRISPRi/a).
• Widespread application across diverse phylogenetic groups including mammalian, bacterial, plant, yeast, and insect systems.
• Guide RNAs and HDR templates are the most deposited, while cloning backbones are most requested; lentiviral plasmids are the majority for expression.

Conclusions:

• The CRISPR toolbox continues to diversify, demonstrating robust interest and adoption across various life forms.
• Global distribution patterns show increasing trends beyond the USA and China, indicating broader accessibility.
• Addgene plays a crucial role in providing equitable access to disruptive genome editing technologies.