Gene editing using CRISPR is a very promising technology, and it has already had a significant impact on a number of research fields. However, while CRISPR makes targeted modifications easier to achieve, designing suitable guides is not a trivial task. It is crucial to ensure both the efficiency and the safety of the selected target sites. In this presentation, we discuss how to implement relevant selection criteria into an algorithm for whole-genome detection and evaluation of candidate sites. We report on the impact of specific design rules and on results to date. We also outline outstanding computational challenges.

Learning Objectives:

1. Learn how to improve the efficiency of CRISPR knock-outs
2. Understand how computational tools can accelerate gene editing projects
3. Learn about outstanding challenges in making these tools more practical and more widely applicable