CRISPR Technology is a revolutionary tool in genetic engineering that allows scientists to edit DNA with high precision. It utilizes a natural defense mechanism found in bacteria, where the CRISPR system identifies and cuts specific sequences of DNA, enabling targeted modifications. This technology has vast applications, from agriculture to medicine, including potential treatments for genetic disorders.
The most well-known form of CRISPR is CRISPR-Cas9, which employs a guide RNA to direct the Cas9 enzyme to the desired DNA location. This capability has sparked significant interest in research and ethical discussions surrounding gene editing, particularly in humans and endangered species.