[CRAFT] Discovery and evolution of CRISPR-Associated Transposons (CAST) for functional RNA-guided integration
Ente: EC
Scadenza: 2029-08-31
Importo max: 263.393 EUR
Paese: EU
Descrizione
CRISPR-Cas nucleases have revolutionized genome editing but remain limited by their reliance on DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which restricts safe and efficient integration of large DNA cargos, particularly in non-dividing cells. CRISPR-associated transposons (CASTs) offer a promising alternative: they enable RNA-guided integration of large DNA cargos without DSBs. However, most systems remain poorly characterized and show low or unreported activity in mammalian systems.
The CRAFT project (CRISPR-Associated Transposons for RNA-guided Functional inTegration) will address these gaps by combining discovery, functional characterization, and directed evolution of novel CASTs. I will mine ancient marine metagenomes, shaped by millennia of virus–host co-evolution, to identify novel CASTs. Selected candidates will be biochemically and functionally characterized, using ddPCR and next-generation sequencing to map precise insertion events in bacteria and human cells. Promising systems will be optimized via Phage-Assisted Continuous Evolution (PACE) to improve integration efficiency and precision.
CRAFT goes beyond current technologies by establishing a full discovery-to-application pipeline for CASTs in eukaryotic cells. Expected results include a curated open-access dataset of novel CASTs and optimized variants for therapeutic and biotechnological applications. These advances will expand the genome-editing toolbox, support personalized medicine (e.g., cystic fibrosis), and create opportunities in agriculture and synthetic biology.
This fellowship will strengthen my expertise at the interface of gene editing, bioinformatics, and synthetic biology, preparing me to establish an independent research group. By advancing CAST discovery and evolution, CRAFT will contribute to Europe’s leadership in next-generation genome engineering with clear scientific, societal, and economic impact.
Settori: Horizon Europe Topics
Vai al bando originale
Registrati gratis su Bandolo per trovare bandi compatibili con la tua azienda.