Who we are

CRISPRkit was invented by undergraduate students Matthew Lau and Marvin Collins at Stanford University in Stanley Qi‘s laboratory.

The inspiration for CRISPRkit came from a profound realization of the transformative potential of CRISPR-Cas technology. Regarded as a monumental breakthrough in modern biology, CRISPR gene editing has revolutionized biotechnology, enabling groundbreaking treatments for diseases such as cancer.

Just as computer programming – another driving force for innovation – the push to promote equity and make computer science accessible for young learners has accelerated advancements in the field.  We firmly believe that, just as computer programming has found its place in schools, gene editing should be introduced and made accessible for young learners to explore.

However, traditional gene editing experiments remain largely inaccessible due to cost, complexity, and perceived risks. Often, only graduate or PhD students get the opportunity to engage hands-on with these experiments. To truly democratize this technology, there is a need to devise an affordable, groundbreaking solution.

Early sketch of CRISPRkit design

Our Solution

Our solution tackles a key challenge in traditional CRISPR experiments: the necessity for live cell cultures. By leveraging a cell-free transcription-translation (TXTL) system, we have crafted an in vitro environment optimal for CRISPR gene editing and regulation experiments. With the TXTL system, one can complete an experiment by simply combining various CRISPR components in a tube, eliminating many steps typical of conventional experiments.

Another hurdle has been experimental readouts and analysis. Traditional CRISPR gene knockouts and knockdowns often require quantification using costly equipment found only in labs. Our solution? We employ chromoproteins that produce vivid pigments easily seen by the naked eye. Furthermore, we have developed a novel computational algorithm CRISPectra capable of analyzing smartphone-captured images of these results, removing the need for specialized equipment.

Workflow for CRISPRkit

Revolutionizing CRISPR & Biology

Lowering Cost

Unlike traditional CRISPR experiments which cost thousands of dollars, our kits are approximately less than $5 each. We bypass the need for expensive lab equipment, making gene editing achievable anywhere, anytime.

Saving Time & Simplifying Steps

While conventional CRISPR experiments take days and involve complex steps, our streamlined protocol requires only 20 minutes lab work and delivers results from 4-24 hours, making gene editing quick and easy.

Bridging Concept & Implementation

Bridging Concept & Implementation

Biology education often suffers from a disconnect between theory and practical application. Our kits offer hands-on experience with CRISPR, facilitating a deeper understanding of the technology and its real-world application.

Education

Education

We believe that equipping the next generation of scientists with the tools of gene editing is critical. By supplying schools with our kits and helping them incorporate CRIPSR into curriculums, we aim to democratize gene editing and inspire future pioneers in genetic engineering.

2019

CRISPRkit idea conception

2020 - 2021

COVID-19 disrupted operations

Early 2022

Developed first prototype: single color experiment

Mid 2022

Developed dual color kit

April 2023

Tested kits with Stanford undergraduate students

May 2023

Received requests from 30+ schools in the Bay Area

October 2023

First high school test with Los Altos High School

May 2024

Expanded kit offerings, including development of melanin kit

August 2024

CRISPRkit paper published on Nature Communications

September 2024 -

Pilot program launch, with kits served to 20 schools