CRISPR-Based RNA Editing and Regulation

CRISPR is an intrinsic prokaryotic system that recognizes and cleaves nucleic acids. This technique is harvested for targeted genome editing and is now a common occurrence rather than an abstract theory. CRISPR Cas9 enables precise alterations in the DNA sequences, epigenetic modifications, and transcription and translation of genes. With advancements in CRISPR-based tools and techniques, this technology has facilitated the exploration of innovative approaches in gene modulation and holds the ability to enhance our understanding of the genetic regulatory code and our capacity to control the fate of the cell. The steps required for CRISPR-Cas genome editing include adaptation, biogenesis, and interference. In biotechnological applications, through a Watson–Crick base pair, sgRNA can be designed, which recognizes the gene of interest. The Cas nuclease, part of effector CRISPR-Cas proteins, recognizes the protospacer adjacent motif and creates a double-strand break at three base pairs upstream of that sequence. The breaks created are resealed by cellular DNA repair methodology, including NHEJ or HDR. The CRISPR-Cas mechanism has a multidisciplinary role in the medical sector, agriculture, and biotechnology. The treatment of genetic diseases through genetic manipulation appears promising, especially at the RNA level, where it is possible to salvage disease-related sequences to generate required protein products. This section covers the process and regulation of the CRISPR-based RNA modification technique, along with its types, uses, and related ethical concerns.