In response to the global increase in antibiotic resistance, Locus Biosciences, a North Carolina-based company, has put forward an innovative solution using genetically modified viruses known as bacteriophages. These viruses naturally infect and destroy bacteria, offering a targeted approach compared to traditional antibiotics that can have broader effects on both harmful and beneficial bacteria.
Locus Biosciences has enhanced bacteriophages by incorporating the genome editing system CRISPR to increase their ability to eliminate bacteria. By combining the specificity of phages with the precision of CRISPR, this approach shows promise in addressing bacterial infections, particularly in the face of rising antibiotic resistance.
The use of CRISPR in genetic editing has opened up new frontiers in scientific research and biotechnology, including applications in medicine, agriculture, and biology. CRISPR’s accuracy, effectiveness, and accessibility have made it a revolutionary tool in genetic engineering, paving the way for advancements in genetic therapy, pest-resistant crops, and more.