Skin Cells Converted into Stem Cells with CRISPR

Considered one of the century’s most important discoveries, CRISPR-Cas9 continues to offer exciting developments. In July 2018, a study published in Naturereported that the CRISPR gene-editing technique successfully converted skin cells into pluripotent stem cells .

Japanese scientist Shinya Yamanaka had discovered that adult stem cells could be reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells. This discovery earned him the 2012 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. Pluripotent stem cells can become every type of cell in the body. However, converting adult cells into pluripotent stem cells required Yamanaka factors (external stimulation with special factors). These had to be inserted into adult skin cells using special techniques.

This carried a risk of genetic mutations and cancer formation.

Researchers used the CRISPR technique on DNA without altering it, activating genes and converting cells into stem cells.

As we know, the Cas9 enzyme in the CRISPR system can cut DNA at specific sites. In this study, Cas9’s cutting ability was modified so it could not cut DNA. This enabled it to activate the target gene without creating mutations. This method was named CRISPRa .

So What Does This Study Mean for Us?

• A CRISPR technique was developed that converts skin cells into pluripotent cells without creating DNA mutations.
• Many scientific authorities describe this technique as a safe way to achieve cell differentiation.
• The research is expected to offer major advantages in areas such as cell reprogramming, biobanks, drug discovery and embryology.