CRISPR-Cas
Adapting to change
Simon A. Jackson (University of Otago)
Rebecca E. McKenzie (Kavli institute of nanoscience Delft, TU Delft - BN/Stan Brouns Lab)
Robert D. Fagerlund (University of Otago)
Sebastian N. Kieper (TU Delft - BN/Stan Brouns Lab, Kavli institute of nanoscience Delft)
Peter C. Fineran (University of Otago)
Stan J.J. Brouns (TU Delft - BN/Stan Brouns Lab, Wageningen University & Research, Kavli institute of nanoscience Delft)
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Abstract
Bacteria and archaea are engaged in a constant arms race to defend against the ever-present threats of viruses and invasion by mobile genetic elements. The most flexible weapons in the prokaryotic defense arsenal are the CRISPR-Cas adaptive immune systems. These systems are capable of selective identification and neutralization of foreign DNA and/or RNA. CRISPR-Cas systems rely on stored genetic memories to facilitate target recognition. Thus, to keep pace with a changing pool of hostile invaders, the CRISPR memory banks must be regularly updated with new information through a process termed CRISPR adaptation. In this Review, we outline the recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing CRISPR adaptation. Specifically, the conserved protein machinery Cas1-Cas2 is the cornerstone of adaptive immunity in a range of diverse CRISPR-Cas systems.