Current CRISPR-Cas-based genome editing tools primarily depend on traditional homologous recombination followed by double-strand DNA breaks, which are often limited by their toxicity. Other approaches, such as base editing via DNA base excision or deamination, are restricted to single base substitutions, while prime editing is mainly applicable to eukaryotic systems and small edits. Recently, a novel method called Append Editing (AE) has been developed, offering efficient, flexible and non-toxic genome editing. AE is unique as it installs bulky chemical moieties onto DNA, blocking DNA replication and facilitating homologous recombination. In this PhD project, we aim to advance the AE technology by exploring new proteins and mechanisms to engineer double-stranded and single-stranded DNA or RNA genomes. The successful development of this approach will significantly expand the genome editing toolbox, unlocking numerous industrial and clinical applications.
Supervisor: Dr. Constantinos Patinios
Contacts:
Phone: +370 690 40 102 / +370 5 239 8221
Programme: Biotechnology