Plant, animal, and human germline cells are significant yet incredibly delicate cells whose genetic makeup consists of DNA from every generation. With the powerful CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technique, these cells can now be changed. The unique approach focuses on the expression of particular genes in germ cells using RNA. This molecular "CRISPR-on-a-chip" assay may even be helpful against the relatively old retroviruses that cause cystic fibrosis in some people, according to a recent study published in the journal Molecular Cell.

This is an incredible discovery, even though it should be made plain that it is not a way to try to treat inherited disorders.