Sigma-Aldrich launches new genome editing tools

Sigma-Aldrich has launched a new mammalian genome editing tool called Sigma CRISPRs through its Sigma Life Science brand.

Designed for screening and exploratory studies, the new product will be packaged in a single plasmid vector containing GFP for fast enrichment of gene-edited cells and can be custom-designed online using an exclusive bioinformatics tool.

Sigma CRISPRs utilise customisable RNA and are derived from bacterial and archaeal immune defenses, which guard against invading viruses and foreign DNA.

Using the online design tool, users will be able to identify the best target sites within human, mouse and rat protein-coding exons that adhere to CRISPR/Cas targeting requirements.

Dr Greg Davis, principal investigator for research and development at Sigma-Aldrich, said: "The ability to manipulate mammalian genomes is transformative for biology. The Sigma CRISPR/Cas technology holds significant promise for development and use as an early, inexpensive tool for targeted gene editing."

This comes after the firm signed a new product commercialisation and development agreement with Paragon Scientific last month.