DANGER analysis

• A team of researchers has developed a software tool called DANGER (Deleterious and ANticipatable Guides Evaluated by RNA-sequencing) analysis that provides a way for the safer design of genome editing in all organisms with a transcriptome.
• For about a decade, researchers have used the CRISPR technology for genome editing. However, there are some challenges in the use of CRISPR.

ABOUT GENOME EDITING

• Genome editing, or gene editing, refers to technologies that allow researchers to change the genomic DNA of an organism. With these technologies, researchers can add, remove or alter genetic material in the genome.
• CRISPR-Cas9 is a well-known gene editing technology.
• It has a reputation for being more accurate, faster, and less expensive than other similar technologies. However, gene editing using CRISPR technology presents some challenges.
  • The first challenge is that the phenotypic, or observable, effects caused by unexpected CRISPR dynamics are not quantitatively monitored.
  • A second challenge is that the CRISPR technology generally depends on basic genomic data, including the reference genome.
  • The reference genome is like a template that provides researchers with general information on the genome.
  • Unexpected sequence editing with mismatches can occur.
  • These off-target sites are always unexpected.
• DANGER analysis software overcomes these challenges.
• It allows researchers to perform safer on- and off-target assessments without a reference genome.
• It can be performed on various organisms, personal human genomes, and atypical genomes created by diseases and viruses.
• It holds the potential for applications in medicine, agriculture, and biological research.