CRISPR-Cas9 Direct Fusions for Improved Genome Editing via Enhanced Homologous Recombination

Abstract

DNA repair in mammalian cells involves the coordinated action of a range of complex cellular repair machinery. Our understanding of these DNA repair processes has advanced to the extent that they can be leveraged to improve the efficacy and precision of Cas9-assisted genome editing tools. Here, we review how the fusion of CRISPR-Cas9 to functional domains of proteins that directly or indirectly impact the DNA repair process can enhance genome editing. Such studies have allowed the development of diverse technologies that promote efficient gene knock-in for safer genome engineering practices.

Keywords

• CRISPR-Cas9
• DNA repair
• homologous recombination
• gene editing