Exploring long-term epigenetic silencing modules to advance the potential of therapeutic gene editing

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Frank Buchholz
• Subject Area: Human Genetics ; General Genetics and Functional Genome Biology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 535486506

Genome editing tools have the potential to revolutionize medicine by correcting mutations and providing one-time cures for previously incurable diseases. However, current technologies have limitations in terms of safety and efficacy, such as the risk of unintended alterations. Scientists have developed alternative CRISPR tools, including base editing and prime editing, that offer more precise and predictable modifications without causing DNA double strand breaks. Another approach is epigenetic editing, which allows manipulation of gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. Epigenetic editing offers advantages over traditional gene editing tools, as it reduces the risk of unintended consequences and enables precise regulation of gene expression. Achieving long-term epigenetic silencing could provide stable and sustainable control of gene expression. The main goal of this project is to discover combinations of powerful and versatile epigenetic editors that can induce sustained gene suppression in diverse cell populations. This research project promises to not only advance our understanding of epigenetics but also has the potential to develop safe therapeutic interventions and improve targeted gene regulation in various pathological conditions.

• DFG Programme: Reinhart Koselleck Projects