CRISPR arrays have proven difficult to generate due to the repetitive nature of their repeats. We developed a new method for assembly CRISPR arrays called CRATES, and we gained unique insights into CRISPR RNA biogenesis along the way.

Despite the improvement in trauma management and operative procedures, traumatic rupture of the thoracic aorta and cardiovascular penetrating injuries continue to be a source of significant mortality1. Currently, surgical suture is the only clinical method for aortic rupture and heart wound sealing but this is not feasible outside surgical units and not attempted in most emergency situations2. Though many experimental chemical agents have been tested for rapid wound sealing, such as fibrin glue, gelatin and collagen3-4. However, none of these materials are suitable for aortic and heart trauma hemostasis and sealing because of their slow hemostatic performance, poor wet tissue surface adhesion and weak or inflexible bonding mechanics.

It is surprising to see the penetration of framework nucleic acids or DNA origami in skin. It is amazing to find out that we can even control their penetration simply by tuning their size.