MilliporeSigma has developed a new genome editing tool designed to make CRISPR more efficient, flexible and specific, in an effort to provide researchers with more experimental options and faster results.

This new technique, called “proxy-CRISPR,” provides access to previously unreachable areas of the genome, according to the company. Most natural CRISPR systems, found in bacteria, cannot work in human cells without significant re-engineering. However, proxy-CRISPR provides a a new method to increase their usability without the need to re-engineer native CRISPR proteins. 

“With more flexible and easy-to-use genome editing technologies, there is greater potential in research, bioprocessing and novel treatment modalities,” said Udit Batra, chief executive officer, MilliporeSigma. “As a leader in genome editing, MilliporeSigma’s new technology is just one example of our commitment to solving challenges in the genome editing field, and we will continue to make CRISPR research a priority.”

CRISPR genome editing technology is helping to advance treatment options for some hard to treat medical conditions, including chronic illnesses and cancers for which there are limited or no treatment options.

The new technology is a follow-on to MilliporeSigma’s existing CRISPR applications. The company’s next suite of genome editing tools for the research community, to be launched later in 2017, will include new and modified versions of Cas and Cas-like proteins.