(F-203) Optimization of CRISPR Cas 9 Delivery Using Electroporation

Genetic Engineering and the production of the CRISPR Cas 9 components has been well established but, researchers are still attempting to find the most favorable delivery method. While introducing the CRISPR components into a cell, a process known as transfection, is required for any difference to be made in the organism’s genetic makeup, viability is also a major requirement for successful genetic en-gineering. Finding a delivery method which balances both viability and transfection is the next step in the evolution of the genetic engineering field. Typically used to kill tumors, a treatment known as electro-poration has been studied as a potential delivery method. While electroporation typically administers too much cell death, new research and development has found that further manipulation of electrical pulses may optimize transfection and reduce cell death. The new electroporation pulses were tested at varying rates and compared to the current electroporation technology to find optimal electrical parameters for maximum viability and transfection. The new electric pulse parameters proved to be 200% more effec-tive at transfection than current electroporation treatment but the best rate settings are unknown as the data was too close to make conclusive determinations based on viability and transfection.