Bacteria and archaea have evolved sophisticated adaptive immune systems that rely on CRISPR RNA (crRNA)-guided detection and nuclease-mediated elimination of invading nucleic acids. In this presentation, I will summarize recent bioinformatic, biochemical, and structural studies that explain how conserved DNA sequence motifs that flank CRISPR loci recruit a collection of Cas and non-Cas proteins. Collectively, these proteins kink and twist the host DNA into two consecutive U-shaped structures that specify the location for integration of foreign DNA. Like so many other research projects, the progress of this work has been delayed by the global pandemic. Unexpectedly, our fundamental research on CRISPRs led to the development of a creative new CRISPR-based diagnostic for RNA viruses. I will share recent results and ongoing challenges for rapid and sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 using a CRISPR-based detection method.
Blake Wiedenheft (Montana State University)