An Improved Protocol for High-Efficiency and Cost-Effective CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Knock-ins in C. elegans

Abstract

CRISPR/Cas9-mediated homology-directed precise genome editing using long single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) donors has expanded the possibilities for generating defined genetic modifications. However, the required ssDNA donor preparation can be technically demanding and often requires extensive locus-specific sequence design. Here, we examined parameters influencing ssDNA donor-mediated genome editing and developed approaches to simplify donor preparation using {lambda}-exonuclease-mediated ssDNA generation. By evaluating donor designs across multiple genomic loci, we found that efficient genome editing can be achieved with relatively short homology regions for a range of insertion sizes. These findings provide a basis for simplifying ssDNA donor preparation and the overall gene-editing pipeline, potentially facilitating its application across species.