Structural Basis for Guide RNA Processing and Seed-Dependent DNA Targeting by CRISPR-Cas12a

Apr 22, 2017Molecular cell

How CRISPR-Cas12a processes guide RNA and targets DNA based on initial matching

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Abstract

Crystal structures of Cas12a reveal distinct mechanisms for guide RNA processing and target DNA cleavage.

  • Cas12a exhibits two nuclease activities: processing its guide RNAs and cleaving target DNA.
  • The structures show how guide RNA is processed and how its seed sequence is prepared for binding.
  • An R-loop complex structure illustrates the mechanism of guide-target hybridization.
  • The findings suggest a single active site mechanism for double-stranded DNA cleavage.
  • Insights gained may enhance understanding of Cas12a enzymes for genome editing applications.

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