CRISPR Gene Editing Mechanism
The CRISPR-Cas9 edit in three beats: guide RNA finds the target sequence, Cas9 cuts the double strand, and repair produces knockout or knock-in outcomes.
Updated 2026-09-24
A CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing mechanism diagram: guide RNA directs Cas9 to the target DNA sequence, Cas9 creates a double-strand break, and two repair outcomes are shown — NHEJ causing gene knockout and HDR causing precise knock-in. Label gRNA, Cas9, PAM site and both repair outcomes.
What is this template?
CRISPR mechanism figures explain targeting (gRNA + PAM), cleavage, and the fork between error-prone NHEJ and templated HDR. They are the standard figure 1 for editing papers and a fixture in methods training.
Where it fits
- Gene-editing manuscript figure 1
- Methods training and teaching slides
- Therapeutic-editing grant proposals
- Journal-club explainers
How to make it yours
Open the template in the studio
Generate the three-beat mechanism, then verify the PAM and outcome labels.
Switch the nuclease
Ask for "Cas12a with a T-rich PAM" or "base editor with a deaminase domain" to cover other editing systems.
Focus the outcome
If your paper is about one repair path, ask the editor to drop the other branch and enlarge the one you keep.
Frequently asked questions
Can it show prime editing or base editing?
Yes. The layout adapts — describe the editor architecture (e.g. pegRNA + reverse transcriptase) and the single outcome you need.