FAQs
1. How does CRISPR differ from older gene-editing techniques like TALENs and zinc finger nucleases?
CRISPR is generally simpler, faster, and more versatile because it uses RNA guides rather than engineered proteins, making it easier to design and apply.
2. Are there any environmental risks associated with releasing CRISPR-edited organisms?
Potential risks include unintended ecological impacts or gene flow to wild populations; thus, strict regulations and risk assessments are essential.
3. How is CRISPR being integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning?
AI helps optimize guide RNA design, predict off-target effects, and accelerate discovery of new Cas proteins for improved precision.
4. Can CRISPR technology be used to edit mitochondrial DNA?
Currently, editing mitochondrial DNA with CRISPR is challenging due to delivery and targeting issues, but research is ongoing to overcome these hurdles.
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