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This article discusses the development of a multi-signal processing guide RNA by researchers at POSTECH, which can logically regulate gene expression in response to various signals. By combining the CRISPR/Cas system with biocomputing technology, the team was able to achieve precise control of networks of genes to respond to multiple signals, opening up new possibilities for gene regulation. Their findings were published in Nucleic Acids Research, highlighting the potential significance of this innovative research in the field of molecular biology and biochemistry.
Guides typically assist tourists with directions, but the experience could be greatly enhanced if they offered personalized services tailored to individual interests. Recently, researchers have transformed guide RNAs, which direct enzymes, into a smart RNA capable of controlling networks in response to various signals. This innovative research is gaining significant attention in the academic community.
A research team consisting of Professor Jongmin Kim and PhD candidates Hansol Kang and Dongwon Park from the Department of Life Sciences at POSTECH has developed a multi-signal processing guide RNA. This guide RNA can be programmed to logically regulate gene expression. Their findings were recently published in Nucleic Acids Research, an international journal of molecular biology and biochemistry.
The CRISPR/Cas system, often referred to as “gene scissors,” is a technology capable of editing gene sequences to add or delete biological functions. Central to this technology, which is used in several fields such as treating genetic diseases and genetically engineering crops, is a guide RNA that directs the enzyme to edit the gene sequence at a specific location. While advances in RNA engineering have spurred research into guide RNAs that respond to biological signals, achieving precise control of networks of genes to respond to multiple signals has remained challenging.
In this study, the team combined the CRISPR/Cas system with biocomputing to overcome these limitations. Biocomputing is a technology that connects biological components like electronic circuits to program cellular and organismal activities. The researchers implemented a guide RNA gene circuit capable of decision-making based on inputs, similar to