Control of gene editing and gene expression via integrated anti-CRISPR proteins

Stanford researchers in the Qi Lab have patented methods to control CRISPR-based gene editing and regulation using anti-CRISPR (Acr) proteins. While CRISPR systems offer significant benefits for gene editing and expression in various organisms, they also pose risks due to irreversible outcomes and potential misuse. To address these concerns, the researchers developed methods to safely and reversibly control CRISPR activity, enabling precise tuning. These methods include inhibition of gene editing and inducible control of gene regulation, allowing the design of robust gene circuits in mammalian cells and enabling new genome engineering applications.

Stage of research
The inventors have characterized Acr proteins and shown that a specific Acr is a potent regulator of (d)Cas9 activity in a wide variety of contexts and cell types. Additional development is ongoing.