What is CRISPR screens?

CRISPR screens are a powerful method to systematically and comprehensively study gene function. They leverage CRISPR-Cas9 technology to disrupt gene expression on a large scale, typically using a library of guide RNAs (gRNAs) targeting thousands of genes. By introducing these gRNAs into cells along with Cas9, researchers can create a population of cells, each with a different gene knocked out or knocked down. These cells are then subjected to a selection pressure or assay of interest. By identifying which gRNAs are enriched or depleted in the surviving or responding cells, researchers can identify genes critical for that specific cellular process or phenotype.