Choi, Yun-Seok

• Postdoctoral, Protein Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 

• Postdoctoral, Structural Biology, Korea Basic Science Institute, South Korea 

• Ph.D., Bio-Analytical Science, University of Science & Technology, South Korea 

• M.S., Organic Chemistry, Hanyang University, South Korea 

• B.S., Chemistry, Hanyang University, South Korea

The CRISPR/Cas9 system has revolutionized genome editing with its precision and versatility, yet concerns about off-target effects remain a significant challenge for therapeutic and research applications. To address this issue, our project focuses on developing a regulatory "turn-off" switch to control CRISPR/Cas9 activity, allowing for precise temporal and spatial modulation of its function. By engineering this regulatory mechanism, we aim to reduce unintended gene modifications and enhance the safety and efficiency of CRISPR-based interventions. Our approach integrates molecular design strategies to fine-tune the deactivation of the Cas9 ribonucleoprotein, minimizing off-target effects without compromising the intended gene-editing outcomes. This research has the potential to improve the reliability of CRISPR/Cas9 for both clinical and laboratory applications, ultimately advancing the field of genome editing. Additionally, undergraduate research students involved in the project will gain valuable hands-on experience in the CRISPR/Cas9 system, cloning, protein expression and purification, as well as enzyme assays, providing a comprehensive research experience.