What does CRISPR technology primarily allow for?

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CRISPR technology primarily allows for precise alterations to DNA in living organisms. This gene-editing tool is based on a natural defense mechanism found in bacteria, which use CRISPR sequences and associated proteins like Cas9 to identify and cut specific DNA sequences. This ability to target specific locations in the genome enables researchers to add, remove, or modify genetic material with high accuracy.

The implications of this technology are vast, including the potential for correcting genetic defects, treating diseases, improving crops, and even controlling pests. The precision of CRISPR is what sets it apart from earlier gene-editing methods, allowing for targeted changes without the unintended effects that could arise from less precise techniques.

In contrast, other options do not align with the primary function of CRISPR; for instance, while some tools may assist in screening viral infections, synthesizing proteins, or sequencing genomes, they do not focus on the targeted modifications to the DNA that CRISPR is designed for. Understanding these distinctions highlights CRISPR's unique role in modern biotechnology.

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