Sandia researchers look for genetic bullet against COVID-19

Sandia National Laboratories COVID-19 coronavirus CRISPR countermeasures

[Image courtesy of Sandia National Laboratories]

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories are using genetic resequencing tools to find ways to stop the virus behind the COVID-19 pandemic.

Biochemist Joe Schoeniger and virologist Oscar Negrete’s work involves genetically engineering a deployable antiviral countermeasure for COVID-19 using CRISPR-based technology.

“The goal is to find new ‘reloadable’ countermeasures for viral outbreaks that do not have to be re-invented every time,” Schoeniger explained. “CRISPR is a technology that allows us to address specific sequences of DNA and RNA, safely editing genes or controlling gene expression, to target viruses and improve the body’s ability to resist infection.”

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