Code Breakers: Using CRISPR to Rewrite Genetics

Students explore gene editing using CRISPR-Cas9 to knock out purple chromogenic genes in classroom-safe bacteria. Non-specific gRNA templates test CRISPR specificity, and successful knockouts are identified by cell color. • Investigate genetic engineering, CRISPR, and the central dogma • Transform E. coli with CRISPR RNA templates to test targeting specificity • Identify gene knockouts by observing cell color