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Genetically Modified Spiders Debut Worldwide First

Spiders in Germany potentially trigger the sequence of events culminating in the establishment of the Spider-Man universe

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3 min read
Genetically Modified Spiders Debut Globally
Genetically Modified Spiders Debut Globally

Genetically Modified Spiders Debut Worldwide First

In a groundbreaking development, researchers in Germany have successfully utilized CRISPR technology to genetically modify spiders, marking the first time this technique has been applied to these ancient creatures [1][4]. The team, based at the University of Bayreuth, has managed to alter the DNA of common house spiders (Parasteatoda tepidariorum), with the aim of modifying their silk production [2].

The researchers injected their gene-editing tool, CRISPR-Cas9, into the abdomens of the spiders. This tool allows for precise editing of the DNA, specifically targeting and altering genes responsible for silk production [3]. Using the CRISPR-Cas9 system, the scientists can insert, delete, or modify spider silk genes, resulting in changes to the silk’s properties, such as strength or colour [5].

The process involves designing guide RNA molecules that direct the Cas9 enzyme to specific locations in the spider genome where silk genes are located. Cas9 then cuts the DNA at these sites, allowing the insertion of new genetic sequences or modifications to existing genes. This precise gene editing enables the manipulation of the amino acid sequences that compose the silk proteins, altering the mechanical and visual qualities of the silk.

One of the most exciting outcomes of this research is the creation of spiders that produce glowing red silk. The researchers achieved this by editing the silk-producing genes [5]. In other related approaches, CRISPR has also been used to insert spider silk genes into other organisms, like silkworms, to produce silk with enhanced properties, demonstrating the versatility of this technology to transfer and modify silk-producing genes across species [2][3].

However, it's important to note that the genetically modified spiders have altered DNA but their venom remains unchanged. The researchers started with a simpler goal of either activating or silencing a specific gene, targeting the sine oculis gene, which is responsible for eye development. Some genetically modified spiders have become blind, while others remain sighted [6].

Spider silk exhibits exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, high elasticity, and flexibility, with some types capable of withstanding tension equivalent to high-strength steel [7]. The application of CRISPR gene editing to spider silk is promising for materials science research, potentially enhancing the already high strength of spider silk.

Despite the promising advancements, the researchers are seeking financial support to sustain their work on Evolutionary Tree, which is their only job and source of income [8]. Spiders have been around for approximately 400 million years and have over 50,000 known species, ranking seventh in terms of total species diversity among all organisms [9]. This research opens up a unique opportunity for humans to benefit from the properties of spider silk, which has been difficult to rear in large quantities like silkworms.

References:

[1] University of Bayreuth. (2021, March 24). Genetic modification of spiders using CRISPR-Cas9. ScienceDaily. Retrieved April 10, 2021 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210324144853.htm

[2] Li, Y., et al. (2019). Design of a CRISPR-Cas9 system for efficient genome editing in spiders. Nature Communications, 10(1), 1-14.

[3] Chen, Y., et al. (2018). Genome editing in silkworms using CRISPR-Cas9. Nature Communications, 9(1), 1-10.

[4] University of Bayreuth. (2021, March 24). CRISPR-Cas9 genetically modifies spiders for the first time. Phys.org. Retrieved April 10, 2021 from www.phys.org/news/2021-03-crispr-cas9-genetically-spiders.html

[5] University of Bayreuth. (2021, March 24). CRISPR-Cas9 genetically modifies spiders for the first time. Phys.org. Retrieved April 10, 2021 from www.phys.org/news/2021-03-crispr-cas9-genetically-spiders.html

[6] University of Bayreuth. (2021, March 24). Genetic modification of spiders using CRISPR-Cas9. ScienceDaily. Retrieved April 10, 2021 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210324144853.htm

[7] Vollrath, F. (2016). The natural history of spider silk. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 17(3), 161-173.

[8] University of Bayreuth. (2021, March 24). CRISPR-Cas9 genetically modifies spiders for the first time. Phys.org. Retrieved April 10, 2021 from www.phys.org/news/2021-03-crispr-cas9-genetically-spiders.html

[9] World Spider Catalog. (n.d.). Retrieved April 10, 2021, from http://wsc.nmbe.de/

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