GlowCas9
Why in news?
- Indian and international reports highlight that GlowCas9 is a bioluminescent Cas9 created by fusing Cas9 with split nano‑luciferase derived from deep‑sea shrimp proteins, so the enzyme literally “glows” when correctly folded and active during genome editing.​
- GlowCas9 allows non‑destructive tracking of CRISPR activity in living cells, tissues and even plant leaves, opening a “new light” for visualizing genome engineering.​
Why it is important
- The protein is reported to be more thermostable than conventional Cas9 and improves the precision of homology‑directed repair, a key DNA repair pathway for correcting mutations linked to hereditary diseases like sickle cell anaemia, muscular dystrophy and some cancers.​
- Commentaries describe GlowCas9 as inaugurating “theratracking” – being able to watch therapeutic gene correction in real time – and mention potential applications in both human gene therapy and non‑transgenic crop improvement.​
About GlowCas9
- GlowCas9: a light‑emitting (bioluminescent) CRISPR‑Cas9 variant that glows during gene editing.​
- Developed by: Bose Institute, Kolkata, under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.​
- Significance: Enables real‑time tracking of genome editing, improves stability and homology‑directed repair, and supports the emerging concept of “theratracking” in gene therapy.​
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