Genome editing at the crossroads of delivery, specificity, and fidelity

Trends Biotechnol. 2015 May;33(5):280-91. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2015.02.011. Epub 2015 Mar 26.

Abstract

Genome editing (GE) entails the modification of specific genomic sequences in living cells for the purpose of determining, changing, or expanding their function(s). Typically, GE occurs after delivering sequence-specific designer nucleases (e.g., ZFNs, TALENs, and CRISPR/Cas9) and donor DNA constructs into target cells. These designer nucleases can generate gene knockouts or gene knock-ins when applied alone or in combination with donor DNA templates, respectively. We review progress in this field, with an emphasis on designer nuclease and donor template delivery into mammalian target cell populations. We also discuss the impact that incremental improvements to these tools are having on the specificity and fidelity attainable with state-of-the-art DNA-editing procedures. Finally, we identify areas that warrant further investigation.

Keywords: delivery systems; designer nucleases; donor DNA; gene targeting; genome editing; high fidelity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA / chemistry
  • Deoxyribonucleases / chemistry
  • Deoxyribonucleases / genetics
  • Deoxyribonucleases / physiology
  • Gene Targeting
  • Genetic Engineering / methods
  • Genetic Engineering / standards
  • Genetic Engineering / trends*
  • Genomics*
  • Humans
  • Models, Genetic
  • Protein Engineering

Substances

  • DNA
  • Deoxyribonucleases