CRISPR-Cas system; Crystal structure; Single molecule; Type I CRISPR; Type II CRISPR
Issue Date
2016-04
Publisher
KOREAN SOCIETY BIOCHEMISTRY & MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Citation
BMB REPORTS, v. 49, NO 4, Page. 201-207
Abstract
The CRISPR-Cas system has emerged as a fascinating and important genome editing tool. It is now widely used in biology, biotechnology, and biomedical research in both academic and industrial settings. To improve the specificity and efficiency of Cas nucleases and to extend the applications of these systems for other areas of research, an understanding of their precise working mechanisms is crucial. In this review, we summarize current studies on the molecular structures and dynamic functions of type I and type II Cas nucleases, with a focus on target DNA searching and cleavage processes as revealed by single-molecule observations.