CRISPR

An diagram shows the concept of editing a gene.
(Image credit: vchal/Shutterstock)

Crispr technology is sort of like a pair of tiny and precise scissors for the molecular world. This gene-editing tool can snip out sections of DNA and replace them with new, healthy genetic stretches. Scientists and doctors have high hopes for its health implications, and they’ve used it to alter severe genetic defects in single-celled embryos. Here, Live Science brings you news and features surrounding Crispr achievements and challenges.

Latest about CRISPR

A pencil drawing showing brain eating amoebas entering a boy's nose, and an artistic representation of the boy's brain breaking down

The biggest health news of 2024, from bird flu to CRISPR

By Nicoletta Lanese published

Health channel editor Nicoletta Lanese looks back on some of our standout health stories from 2024.

Health
An illustration of DNA breaking apart into tiny pieces

New CRISPR system pauses genes, rather than turning them off permanently

By Jennifer Zieba published

Researchers in Lithuania present the molecular structure of a new, more-versatile CRISPR system for gene editing.

Genetics
An artist's rendering of strands of DNA with a cutout

CRISPR could soon be used to edit fetal DNA — are we ready?

By Julia Brown published

Medical anthropologist and bioethicist Julia Brown says scientists and nonscientists need to talk about whether and how we should use CRISPR to edit the fetal genome.

Genetics
an illustration of a large pair of scissors cutting through a DNA molecule against a black background

'Enhancing' future generations with CRISPR is a road to a 'new eugenics,' says ethicist Rosemarie Garland-Thomson

By Rosemarie Garland-Thomson published

"Eugenics seeks to improve by eliminating the characteristics considered at a particular time and place to be disadvantages and to maximize those considered normal."

Genetics
An illustration showing silhouettes of hands using scissors and tweezers on strands of DNA

'Who are we to say they shouldn't exist?': Dr. Neal Baer on the threat of CRISPR-driven eugenics

By Nicoletta Lanese published

Dr. Neal Baer discusses a new book about the incredible promise and potential pitfalls of CRISPR gene-editing technology.

Genetics
A 3d rendering of rod-shaped bacteria with tiny tails

CRISPR could be used to treat UTIs, early trial hints

By Nicoletta Lanese published

Scientists are testing a "genetically enhanced bacteriophage cocktail" as a treatment for urinary tract infections.

Medicine & Drugs
A conceptual 3D illustration showing a strand of DNA being cut with large scissors

How does CRISPR work?

By Kamal Nahas last updated

CRISPR is a versatile tool for editing genomes and has recently been approved as a gene therapy treatment for certain blood disorders.

Genetics
A photo shows two male doctors in surgery garb as one preps a long needle for a procedure. A patient is under a blue sheet on an operating table but can't be seen.

CRISPR can treat common form of inherited blindness, early data hint

By Sneha Khedkar published

In a small trial, some people with inherited vision loss experienced improvements in their sight after being treated with CRISPR.

Genetics
Close-up picture of Rick Slayman. He is sat on a hospital bed and wearing what looks like a black sweatshirt.

1st person to receive a pig kidney transplant has died

By Emily Cooke published

Rick Slayman was the first person in the world to receive this pioneering surgery in March 2024.

Surgery
Virginijus Šikšnys (an older man with short brown hair and round glasses wearing a suit jacket) gestures toward a 3D model of DNA on a table

CRISPR 'will provide cures for genetic diseases that were incurable before,' says renowned biochemist Virginijus Šikšnys

By Nicoletta Lanese published

Live Science spoke with biochemist Virginijus Šikšnys, whose work helped establish CRISPR as a gene-editing system.

Genetics
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