Structure of Cas12a Guided by DNA

The cryo-EM structure of AsCas12a reveals how it binds to both DNA and RNA components.

• AsCas12a utilizes a pseudo-DNA guide to achieve RNA recognition.
• The structure shows a hairpin formation that links recognition and nuclease functions.
• This arrangement mimics a specific DNA structure, facilitating the interaction with RNA.
• The findings offer insights into the mechanisms of RNA-DNA pairing.
• The information could guide future engineering of CRISPR/Cas systems.

Simplified