This Biomedical Beat blog post explores the fascinating gene-editing tool called CRISPR. It details how in the 1980s, researchers discovered odd, repeating sequences in the genomes of certain bacterial species, later named CRISPR sequences. Now, scientists use the CRISPR-Cas9 system in the laboratory to improve our understanding of human biology, and clinicians can use it to treat some diseases, like sickle cell disease. In addition to educational information, this post also provides access to a Kahoot! quiz, which tests students’ knowledge of this tool.

Grades: 9-12
Produced by: National Institute of General Medical Sciences