The RNA-cutting method which is similar to the method of gene cutting

Researchers who found the molecular "scissors" which cut genes now have developed a similar method for targeting and cutting RNA. The new cutting tools should help researchers better understand the role of RNA in cells and disease. Some people think that it might be used to treat many diseases from Huntington's disease to heart disease one day. Various recombinant proteins have achieved their goal.

In order to develop the "Blade" aimed at this process, Zhang Feng from the Broad Institute in the United States led researchers to make use of CRISPR (clustered, short palindromic repeats at regular intervals), namely the system evolved by bacteria for confrontation pathogen. CRISPR had previously been used to edit DNA, but theoretically it should also be effective for RNA. The study was published in the journal Science. Zhang Feng said that his latest method - making use of C2c2 enzymes to target RNA -relies on existing natural systems, thus it may be more effective than approaches which need more control. Studies have not confirmed that C2c2 system plays a role in mammalian cells, but Zhang Feng said that the results which had not been released make him maintain an optimistic attitude. The application of recombinant human proteins also used to experience some tests.

Professor cellular and molecular medicine Gene Yeo at the University of California, San Diego said, "A large number of such tools will allow us to monitor and study the RNA. This will help us to treat RNA not only as an intermediate molecule between DNA and proteins, but also a tool for the treatment of diseases and developmental problems."

Gene contains double-stranded DNA which produces single-stranded RNA, while single-stranded RNA in turn produces necessary proteins for life. Many diseases are due to too much or too little protein. Theoretically, effects on RNA could help to push the levels of these proteins up or down, and therefore providing methods of treatment. For example, the levels of recombinant INSRR can lead to different health condition.

Compared with "tinkering" basic DNA, manipulating RNA would create fewer ethical concerns. Zhang Feng said that he has always been very interested on the development of RNA system. New research shows that C2c2 is originally a system targeted to RNA. And the same to Cas9 system targeted to specific RNA, C2c2 can be directly "targeted" to the expected RNA sequence, so it was less likely to show off-target effects.