The CRISPR journalJul 23, 2026

Changing Use Patterns of Advanced CRISPR Tools Shared by Addgene

CRISPR Gene Editing Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗DOI ↗

Updated Jul 24, 2026

Abstract

Over 20,000 plasmids have been deposited and distributed more than 300,000 times globally since 2012.

CRISPR research has seen significant growth, driven by the global sharing of plasmids through Addgene.
Diverse genome editing techniques have emerged, including various Cas proteins and editing methods.
The majority of plasmid deposits include guide RNAs and HDR templates, while lentiviral plasmids are the most requested.
There is a growing interest in genome editing applications across a wide range of organisms.
Distribution of plasmids is increasingly occurring outside the USA and China, indicating a broader global engagement.

Simplified

Since the advent of Cas9-based CRISPR technologies in 2012, there has been a remarkable growth in genome editing research, literature, applications, and translational impact. Much of this research has been fueled by the global dissemination of CRISPR plasmids through nonprofit distribution by Addgene, as both a repository and distributor of enabling biological material. Recently, key milestones have been reached, with over 20,000 plasmids deposited by over 1,000 labs, being distributed over 300,000 times globally. The driving trends reflect multidimensional diversification in terms of effectors (Cas9, Cas12 and beyond), editing modalities (base editing, prime editing, epigenetic modification, CRISPRi/a), and deployment across phylogenetic groups (mammalian, bacterial, plant, yeast, insects, and more). Noteworthy, guide RNA and HDR templates account for the bulk of deposits, while cloning backbones are the most requested, and lentiviral plasmids comprise the majority of expression material. The data reflect a continued diversification of the CRISPR-based toolbox, robust interest in genome editing applications across the tree of life, maturation in terms of adoption, and rising relative distribution beyond the USA and China, with Addgene continuing to play a critical role in access to equitable and disruptive technologies.