CRISPR and Cas9 Gene Editing

Cas9 is an endonuclease protein that forms the core component of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system. It functions as 'molecular scissors' that can cut DNA at specific locations guided by a RNA guide sequence, allowing precise editing of genes. The CRISPR-Cas9 system, derived from bacterial immune systems, has revolutionized genetic engineering and has applications in treating genetic diseases, cancers, and creating disease-resistant crops. Statement (b) is incorrect: Cas9 is not a biosensor for pathogen detection. Statement (c) is incorrect: While CRISPR can be used to develop pest-resistant plants, Cas9 is the protein tool, not the gene itself. Statement (d) is incorrect: Cas9 is not a herbicide but a protein enzyme. The 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier for CRISPR gene editing technology. > Cas9 = Endonuclease protein acting as 'molecular scissors' in CRISPR gene editing system. Answer: a.