enFnCas9: CrisprBits’ licensed precision tool for next-generation genome engineering from India
Source: Nature Communications – Read the study
When it comes to genome editing, the choice of Cas nuclease can make all the difference between a promising experiment and a clinical breakthrough. Among the growing family of engineered Cas proteins, enhanced Francisella novicida Cas9 (enFnCas9) is emerging as a standout—combining high specificity, broader target range, and faster kinetics in a single platform.
CrisprBits has now licensed enFnCas9, enabling applications in therapeutics, diagnostics, and biotech research. This versatile nuclease was developed by Dr. Debojyoti Chakraborty, Dr. Souvik Maiti, and team, who describe it as a “Swiss army knife of genome editing.”
Why enFnCas9 is different
- Broadened PAM recognition: Expands targetable genomic sites by ~3.5× compared to wild-type FnCas9.
- High specificity: Maintains single-mismatch discrimination, minimizing off-target effects.
- Kinetic boost: Faster DNA cleavage rates for improved editing efficiency.
- HDR & base editing compatibility: Enhanced knock-in rates and tunable adenine base editing without PAM re-engineering.
Therapeutic potential
In a key demonstration, en31-ABEmax8.17, a base editor built on enFnCas9, precisely corrected a disease-causing RPE65 mutation in patient-derived iPSCs from a Leber congenital amaurosis type 2 case—restoring full-length protein expression in retinal pigment epithelium cells.
Diagnostics edge
The broadened PAM flexibility also expands CRISPRDx capabilities, enabling detection of a wider range of pathogenic DNA sequences with single-nucleotide resolution.
Industry perspective
Vijay Chandru, Co-Founder of CrisprBits, called this licensing “a DeepSeek moment for Indian sovereignty in synthetic biology”, reflecting the potential of homegrown biotech innovation to shape the global CRISPR landscape.
Founded by scientists and entrepreneurs with deep experience in diagnostics, precision medicine, and clinical research, CrisprBits is guided by three core principles:
- Deep science for high-quality products
- Ethical stewardship in technology choices
- Building diverse, exceptional teams
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