From Hack and Tip to AI Precision: the Evolution of CRISPR gRNA Design Invited

The CRISPR/Cas9 technology is a game-changer in the field of molecular genetics, enabling the first rapid and efficient genomic editing in virtually any organism. The gRNA is a crucial factor in the technology that determines editing efficiency and specificity. The field has progressively moved away from empirical recipes towards computer-aided precision-engineering methodologies based on artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning over the last decade. This review discusses important breakthroughs in gRNA design, remaining limitations, and prospects, with an emphasis on translational and biotechnological applications.