GUIDE RNA Meaning and
Definition
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Guide RNA (gRNA) refers to a type of non-coding RNA molecule that plays a crucial role in guiding and directing nucleic acid editing, particularly in the context of genome editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9. It acts as a molecular guide, providing instructions to the Cas9 endonuclease enzyme, which is responsible for making precise cuts in the DNA sequence during gene editing processes.
In the context of CRISPR-Cas9 technology, the gRNA is designed to be complementary to a specific target sequence within the genome. The gRNA consists of two essential components: a CRISPR RNA (crRNA) and a trans-activating CRISPR RNA (tracrRNA). These two components can be artificially combined to form a single-guide RNA (sgRNA), simplifying the gene editing process.
The gRNA works by binding to the target DNA sequence through complementary base pairing. Once bound, the Cas9 enzyme is recruited and guided to the specific site in the genome. The Cas9 enzyme then creates a double-stranded break in the DNA, enabling subsequent modifications or repairs as desired. The gRNA sequence determines the specificity of the gene-editing process and is usually designed to be highly specific to the target gene, minimizing off-target effects.
Overall, guide RNA is a key component in CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology, responsible for targeting specific DNA sequences and guiding the Cas9 enzyme to carry out precise genetic modifications. Its importance lies in enabling efficient, targeted genome editing, making it a revolutionary tool with numerous applications in various fields, including biological research, biotechnology, and medicine.
Common Misspellings for GUIDE RNA
- fuide rna
- vuide rna
- buide rna
- huide rna
- yuide rna
- tuide rna
- gyide rna
- ghide rna
- gjide rna
- giide rna
- g8ide rna
- g7ide rna
- guude rna
- gujde rna
- gukde rna
- guode rna
- gu9de rna
- gu8de rna
- guise rna
- guixe rna
Etymology of GUIDE RNA
The term "guide RNA" is derived from the combination of two words: "guide" and "RNA".
- "Guide" comes from the Middle English word "gide", which is derived from the Old French word "guider" meaning "to guide or lead". The Old French word itself originates from the Frankish word "witan", meaning "to show the way".
- "RNA" stands for "ribonucleic acid", which is a type of nucleic acid that is essential in various biological processes, including protein synthesis.
Therefore, "guide RNA" refers to a type of RNA molecule that guides or leads molecular processes in biological systems. It is commonly used in gene editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 to direct the Cas9 enzyme to specific target DNA sequences.
