Fanzors: Programmable RNAs
“Here, we [at the McGovern Brain Institute, MIT] characterize Fanzors as RNA-programmable DNA endonucleases, using biochemical and cellular evidence. We found diverse Fanzors that frequently associate with various eukaryotic transposases. Reconstruction of Fanzors evolution revealed multiple radiations of RuvC-containing [proteins in DNA repair] TnpB [RNA-guided DNA endonuclease] homologs in eukaryotes. Fanzor genes captured introns and proteins acquired nuclear localization signals, indicating extensive, long-term adaptation to functioning in eukaryotic cells. Fanzor nucleases contain a rearranged catalytic site of the RuvC domain, similar to a distinct subset of TnpBs, and lack collateral cleavage activity. We demonstrate that Fanzors can be harnessed for genome editing in human cells, highlighting the potential of these widespread eukaryotic RNA-guided nucleases for biotechnology applications.” MORE
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