Research Projects

CRISPR-Cas systems are bacterial immune systems that defend cells against invading DNA. But how does this play out when bacteria are actively pulling the DNA into their cells, as in natural competence? We have developed tools to study and use the natural CRISPR-Cas system in naturally competent A. baylyi, and we're investigating how CRISPR-Cas defends against DNA that the cells actively pull in and insert into their genomes. Harnessing endogenous CRISPR-Cas systems also helps us develop living DNA biosensors with single-base sensitivity.