The gene targeting facility aims to enable Babraham Institute scientists to carry out the latest genome editing methodologies. CRISPR/Cas9 allows for precise cleavage of double stranded DNA, these breaks are then repaired by various pathways. For example, a double stranded break (DSB) within a protEIn coding region will be repaired via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and will introduce an indel which can lead to a gene knock-out (KO). Thus, manipulating the genome has never been so accessible.
We offer expertise on the use of CRISPR/Cas9 to achieve your desired gene edit. We provide advice on reagents based on mechanisms of DNA repair such as homology directed repair (HDR) or homologous recombination (HR). Additionally, we also advise on the optimal and most cost effective strategy to genotype clones or pools, as genotyping is the most crucial step. When gene targeting projects have been unsuccessful, we can help with troubleshooting or suggest alternative strategies.
Asif Nakhuda - Gene Targeting Specialistasif.nakhuda@babraham.ac.uk