Guide RNAs with embedded barcodes boost CRISPR-pooled screens

Genome Biol. 2019 Jan 24;20(1):20. doi: 10.1186/s13059-019-1628-0.

Abstract

We report a new method using re-designed guide RNAs with internal barcodes (iBARs) embedded in their loop regions. Our iBAR approach outperforms the conventional method by producing screening results with much lower false-positive and false-negative rates especially with a high multiplicity of infection (MOI). Importantly, the iBAR approach reduces the starting cells at high MOI significantly with greatly improved efficiency and accuracy compared with the canonical CRISPR screens at a low MOI. This new system is particularly useful when the source of cells is limited or when it is difficult to control viral infection for in vivo screening.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bacterial Proteins
  • Bacterial Toxins
  • CRISPR-Cas Systems*
  • Gene Targeting
  • Genomics / methods*
  • HEK293 Cells
  • HeLa Cells
  • Humans
  • RNA, Guide, CRISPR-Cas Systems*

Substances

  • Bacterial Proteins
  • Bacterial Toxins
  • RNA, Guide, CRISPR-Cas Systems
  • toxB protein, Clostridium difficile