[Campbell Biology P.638] Based on the information provided, which of the following statement... | Practice Question

Based on the information provided, which of the following statements about the prokaryotic CRISPR-Cas9 system is most accurate?

  • A: It is a natural bacterial defense mechanism against fungal infections.
  • B: It uses "guide RNA" to target and cut specific DNA sequences.
  • C: Its primary application mentioned is enhancing petroleum production.
  • D: It is primarily used for identifying new antibiotic classes like malacidins.

Explanation

The text explains that Cas proteins, acting together with "guide RNA" made from the CRISPR region, "can cut any DNA sequence to which they are directed." This accurately describes the function and application of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in gene editing.