Exploring Diverse Cas9 Variants for Genome and Epigenome Editing

Swift Summary:

• The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), Volume 122, Issue 11, March 2025, highlights advancements in genome editing technologies.
• CRISPR-based approaches have dominated genome editing research over the past decade.
• Current methods rely mainly on a Cas9 effector with limited targeting specificity and select efficiency.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The increasing sophistication of genome editing technologies using CRISPR offers immense potential for scientific innovation globally, including india. However, reliance on a single Cas9 effector may limit broader applications or create inequities in advanced biotechnological tools. For Indian researchers and policymakers invested in genetic science advancements-especially for agriculture or healthcare-exploring diversified approaches beyond Cas9 could foster more inclusive solutions tailored to India’s unique needs. This development can be important for ensuring that genomic science benefits are distributed widely across sectors while remaining ethical and enduring.

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