Become a Genome Engineer and Explore CRISPR-Cas9’s Potential to Cure Human Genetic Disorders!
Students present their research to the class.Copyright Heidi Bordeleau
Students use the engineering design process as they work in groups to research one of five genetic disorders and learn about CRISPR-Cas9 using a paper model and an online interactive tool. They adapt the paper model to simulate how CRISPR-Cas9 could potentially cure their assigned disorder. Using their research and models, they create a pitch for research funding in the form of a trifold poster. Finally, the entire class debates and discusses which disease should receive the most funding to develop a CRISPR-based cure, considering humanity’s need for a cure (number of cases, disease severity, availability of other treatments, etc.) and the feasibility of targeting their disease with CRISPR.
Genome engineering is the process of precisely modifying the genetic material of an organism to achieve desired traits or outcomes. This field uses tools such as CRISPR-Cas9, TALENs, and zinc-finger nucleases to edit DNA by adding, deleting, or altering specific sequences. Genome engineering is widely used in medicine, agriculture, and research, enabling breakthroughs such as correcting genetic disorders, creating disease-resistant crops, and studying gene function. By combining principles of molecular biology, genetics, and bioengineering, genome engineering offers transformative potential for addressing global challenges in health, food security, and environmental sustainability.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Explain how an error in DNA (mutation) can lead to disease.
- Model how CRISPR-Cas9 alters DNA.
- Differentiate between homology-directed repair and non-homologous end joining.