TED-Ed: How CRISPR lets you edit DNA - Andrea M. Henle

The video explores the role of genes and DNA in living organisms and introduces CRISPR, a gene-editing tool derived from a natural bacterial immune system. CRISPR uses Cas9 proteins and guide RNA to target and edit specific genes, offering potential treatments for genetic diseases and applications in agriculture and medicine. However, ethical concerns and the unpredictability of long-term effects pose challenges.

What is the primary role of DNA in living organisms?

• To transport nutrients within the cell

• To protect cells from viruses

• To act as an instruction manual for traits

• To provide energy for cellular processes

What are the two main components of the natural CRISPR system?

• DNA polymerase and ribosomes

• RNA primers and helicase

• CRISPR sequences and Cas proteins

• Guide RNA and Cas9

How do scientists use CRISPR in the lab to edit genes?

• By designing guide RNA to direct Cas9 to target genes

• By using CRISPR to replicate DNA strands

• By using CRISPR sequences to directly alter DNA

• By injecting Cas proteins into the cell nucleus

What is the role of Cas9 in the CRISPR gene editing process?

• To bind to DNA and initiate replication

• To act as a molecular scissor cutting DNA

• To transport RNA within the cell

• To repair DNA strands

What repair process can be used to fix DNA errors with CRISPR?

• Transcriptional repair

• Nonhomologous end joining

• Reverse transcription

• Homology directed repair

What is a potential application of CRISPR technology?

• Developing new types of antibiotics

• Enhancing the photosynthesis process

• Creating plants that yield larger fruit

• Increasing the speed of cellular respiration

What is a major ethical concern associated with CRISPR technology?

• The difficulty in obtaining CRISPR materials

• The potential for unintended genetic changes

• The high cost of CRISPR tools

• The lack of scientific interest in CRISPR