# CRISPR Capture, Destroy, and Counter-Attack Mechanisms

> **NIH NIH R35** · UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA · 2023 · $39,128

## Abstract

Project Summary
CRISPR-Cas adaptive immune systems are deployed by prokaryotic organisms to protect them from potential
lethal infection by viruses. As a counter-defense strategy, certain viruses produce anti-CRISPR (ACR) proteins
capable of inactivating CRISPR-mediated, anti-viral immunity. Diverse CRISPR-Cas systems function by
capturing short viral sequences within the CRISPR locus of the host genome and using expressed crRNAs and
associated Cas nucleases for viral recognition and destruction. The identities and functions of viral ACRs in
subverting distinct CRISPR-Cas systems are only just now being revealed. The primary objectives of our
research program are: 1) to understand the molecular basis of mechanisms underlying both host CRISPR-Cas
immune pathways and anti-CRISPR activities of viruses and 2) to exploit knowledge gained to contribute and
improve CRISPR-based applications. Using an established and powerful combination of molecular, genetic,
structural and biochemical approaches, with invaluable contributions from a team of superb collaborators, we
will continue to work to dissect pathways and delineate molecular mechanisms governing diverse CRISPR-Cas
systems. Furthermore, we will gain key insight on ACR-mediated mechanisms used by viruses to thwart
CRISPR immunity. Innovative CRISPR-based tools and technologies are providing transformative advances in
basic and medical research. The knowledge gained by our research will contribute directly to ongoing efforts
aimed at exploiting diverse CRISPR-Cas systems as powerful research tools (e.g. for genome editing and
controlled gene expression, to selectively detect and target human viral and bacterial pathogens, and for
limiting the spread of antibiotic resistance). Moreover, understanding the detailed modes of action of diverse
ACRs is necessary for establishing ACRs as important new research tools for selective and safe utilization of
different CRISPR-based technologies.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10784187
- **Project number:** 3R35GM118160-08S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
- **Principal Investigator:** MICHAEL P TERNS
- **Activity code:** R35 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2023
- **Award amount:** $39,128
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2016-05-01 → 2026-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10784187

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10784187, CRISPR Capture, Destroy, and Counter-Attack Mechanisms (3R35GM118160-08S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10784187. Licensed CC0.

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