About
The CRISPR-Cas Defense Mechanism program delves into the revolutionary gene-editing technology that has transformed scientific research and biotechnology. Over the course of one month, students will learn about different CRISPR-Cas systems, their discovery, and how they can be harnessed for genome editing across various organisms. The curriculum is designed to cover both theoretical concepts and practical applications, including lab simulations and case studies of CRISPR in therapeutic settings and agriculture.
Aim
This program aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the CRISPR-Cas systems, highlighting their roles in microbial immunity and biotechnological applications. Participants will explore the molecular mechanisms, ethical implications, and the latest advancements in CRISPR technology to prepare for careers in genetic engineering and biomedicine.
Program Objectives
- Understand the fundamentals of CRISPR-Cas systems and their biological functions.
- Gain hands-on experience with CRISPR design and applications in lab simulations.
- Explore the ethical and regulatory frameworks governing gene editing.
- Analyze case studies on the impact of CRISPR technologies in medicine and agriculture.
- Prepare for advanced studies or careers in genetic editing technologies.
Program Structure
Month 1: Foundations of CRISPR-Cas Technology
Week 1: Introduction to Genome Editing
Historical perspective of genome editing
Overview of genome editing technologies
Discovery and development of CRISPR-Cas systems
Week 2: Molecular Mechanisms of CRISPR-Cas
Structure and function of CRISPR-Cas components
Mechanism of CRISPR-Cas action
Types of CRISPR-Cas systems (Class 1, Class 2)
Week 3: CRISPR-Cas in Prokaryotes
Adaptive immunity in bacteria and archaea
Natural functions and diversity of CRISPR-Cas systems
Biogenesis and interference phases
Week 4: Guide RNA Design and Optimization
Principles of guide RNA design
Bioinformatics tools for target site selection
Strategies to enhance specificity and efficiency
Month 2: Practical Applications and Methodologies
Week 1: CRISPR-Cas in Genetic Engineering
Gene knockout and knock-in techniques
Base editing and prime editing
Applications in model organisms
Week 2: Delivery Methods for CRISPR-Cas
Delivery vectors (plasmids, viral vectors)
Non-viral delivery methods (electroporation, nanoparticles)
Tissue-specific delivery approaches
Week 3: CRISPR-Cas for Disease Modeling
Generation of disease models using CRISPR-Cas
Applications in studying genetic diseases
High-throughput screening using CRISPR libraries
Week 4: CRISPR-Cas in Therapeutics
Clinical applications and gene therapy
Strategies for in vivo and ex vivo editing
Ethical considerations and regulatory aspects
Month 3: Advanced Applications and Future Directions
Week 1: Agricultural Biotechnology and CRISPR
Genome editing in plants and crops
Enhancing crop yield and resistance
Case studies in agricultural applications
Week 2: CRISPR-Cas in Synthetic Biology
Engineering synthetic gene networks
Applications in metabolic engineering
CRISPR-based biosensors
Week 3: Emerging Technologies and Innovations
Next-generation CRISPR technologies
High-throughput CRISPR screening methods
Multiplexed genome editing
Week 4: Case Studies and Future Prospects
Analysis of recent CRISPR-Cas research papers
Future directions in CRISPR-Cas research
Career opportunities in genome editing
Participant’s Eligibility
- Undergraduate degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, or related fields.
- Professionals in biomedical research, pharmaceuticals, or agricultural biotechnology.
- Individuals with a keen interest in genetic engineering and genome editing technologies.
Program Outcomes
- Proficiency in CRISPR-Cas technology applications.
- Understanding of molecular techniques in genetic engineering.
- Ability to address ethical considerations in biotech.
- Readiness for advanced research or professional roles.
- Skills in interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
Program Deliverables
- Access to e-LMS
- Real-Time Project for Dissertation
- Project Guidance
- Paper Publication Opportunity
- Self Assessment
- Final Examination
- e-Certification
- e-Marksheet