CRISPR-Cas Genome Editing: Mechanisms and Applications
Mastering Gene Editing: Unlock the Potential of CRISPR
Skills you will gain:
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.
What you will learn?
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
Intended For :
- 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.
Career Supporting Skills
