One of the technologies that shows the great discoveries in science is CRISPR-Cas9. It is a technique for gene editing, and it can can alter our understanding of our genes, and even change the genes themselves. CRISPR is an acronym for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, and it is found in bacteria as their defence mechanism that allows the bacteria to recognize and fend off future attacks. Cas9 is an enzyme that is produced by CRISPR that can cut off certain parts of DNA and turn off specific genes. CRISPR-Cas9 can allow researchers to program Cas9 and make it edit specific genes within an organism’s DNA. This technology opens up many possibilities, from curing genetic diseases to helping studies about drugs/medications, and even editing the genes of embryos before they are born for specific traits. We have been exploring CRISPR-Cas9 through paper models that imitate the process of gene cutting and replacing which allow us to have a physical and visual representation of the process that CRISPR-Cas9 goes through.

The CRISPR-Cas9 system has two key components, the Cas9 protein, and a small RNA molecule known as guide RNA (gRNA). The gRNA is designed to be complementary to a specific target gene sequence, guiding Cas9 to the desired location in the DNA. Researchers then create a custom gRNA to target a specific gene by matching the gene’s sequence they want to edit. Next, The gRNA binds to the complementary DNA sequence within the target gene. Cas9 is guided by the gRNA to the precise location in the DNA where the gene is situated. Once the Cas9-gRNA complex locates the target gene, Cas9 act as scissors which create a double-strand break in the DNA at that specific location. After the DNA is cut by Cas9, the cell’s natural repair mechanisms come into play. There are two primary repair pathways: Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ) and Homology-Directed Repair (HDR). NHEJ often leads to small insertions or deletions, disrupting the target gene’s function and effectively “knocking out” the gene. When the goal is to correct a mutation, the HDR pathway is used. A template DNA with the desired correction is introduced alongside the Cas9-gRNA complex. The cell uses this template DNA to repair the break, incorporating the desired correction into the genome. CRISPR-Cas9 can be used in many different ways, such as treating genetic disorders by repairing or replacing mutated genes, studying gene function and regulation, creating genetically modified organisms for research, agriculture, and medicine, enhancing disease resistance in crops, developing new therapies for diseases such as cancer and HIV, and advancing gene therapy for genetic conditions. However, we have to also think about the ethical side of using this technology, especially in humans. This technology is very promising for gene editing but should also be used responsibly.

The paper model of the CRISPR-Cas9 process allowed us to have a more hands-on approach to learning how the genes are altered because we were able to actually cut the paper and add mutations to the RNA, which is what happens with CRISPR-Cas9, and even tape it back together to mimic the process of how CRISPR edits the genes. It also allowed us to see the template DNA and how the DNA is copied into the Cas9-gRNA. However, the paper model did not include the actual end product of using CRISPR, and it was also obviously not as detailed as the real thing, so there are some drawbacks to using models such as this one to conduct our learning. To better improve the model, there could be a digital simulation which allows us to have a visual 3D representation of CRISPR-Cas9 instead of just a flat paper model, but the paper model allowed us to cut the genes ourselves which made it more interactive and interesting for us.

Using models to teach scientific concepts to others is a highly effective method for educating both students and the general public about science. Firstly, models offer a visual representation of often abstract scientific ideas, making it easier for people to understand complex concepts. Their visual appeal also allows for more engagement in the activity compared to reading or listening alone. Additionally, models can simplify difficult concepts, breaking them down into manageable components, allowing learners to establish a solid understanding before adding on complex details. Models also come in various forms, including hands-on models and interactive simulations, which encourages experimentation, leading to a deeper understanding of scientific principles. However, inaccurate or misleading models can create misunderstandings, emphasizing the importance of scientific accuracy in model design. Some concepts may also need the pairing of models with real-world examples. People also have many different learning styles, and while some models are better for others, some people may prefer different learning methods such as kinesthetic approaches or reading.

Works Cited:

“Natural Functions of CRISPR-Cas.” Mpg.De, https://www.mpg.de/11823901/crispr-cas-functions. Accessed 23 Oct. 2023.

“What Are Genome Editing and CRISPR-Cas9?” Medlineplus.Gov, https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/genomicresearch/genomeediting/. Accessed 24 Oct. 2023.