GlowCas9 Protein

GlowCas9 Protein Latest News

Recently, scientists from Kolkata based Bose institute have created GlowCas9 protein which can track gene editing.

About GlowCas9 Protein

• It is a CRISPR protein that lights up while performing gene editing.
• It is a bioluminescent version of Cas9 that glows inside cells.
• Structure: GlowCas9 is created by fusing Cas9 with a split nano-luciferase enzyme derived from deep-sea shrimp proteins.

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Properties of GlowCas9 Protein

• The GlowCas9 is very stable and maintains its structure and activity at higher temperatures compared to the conventional enzyme.
• It glows inside cells, allowing for real-time monitoring of CRISPR operations

Working of GlowCas9 Protein

• The split nano-luciferase enzyme pieces reconnect when Cas9 folds correctly, producing light
• This glowing activity allows scientists to monitor CRISPR operations in living cells, tissues, and even plant leaves—without harming them.

Benefits of GlowCas9 Protein

• It can also increase the precision of homology-directed repair (HDR).
  • Homology-Directed Repair (HDR) is a DNA repair process crucial for fixing hereditary mutations that are linked to genetic diseases like sickle cell anaemia, muscular dystrophy and so on.
• GlowCas9 pioneers the emerging field of theratracking or visualizing molecular gene therapy in motion.

Source: PIB