Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFNs) are a class of engineered DNA-binding proteins that facilitate targeted editing of the genome by creating double-strand breaks in DNA at user-specified locations. Double-strand breaks are important for site-specific mutagenesis in that they stimulate the cell′s natural DNA-repair processes, namely homologous recombination and Non-Homologous End Joining (NHEJ). By implementing established, field-proven methods, these processes can be harnessed to generate precisely targeted genomic edits, resulting in cell lines with precise and heritable gene deletions, integrations or modifications.

Functional Genomics/Target Validation

• Creation of gene knockouts in multiple cell lines
• Complete knockout of genes not amenable to RNAi

Cell-based Screening

• Creation of knock-in cell lines with promoters, fusion tags or reporters integrated into endogenous genes

Cell Line Optimization

• Creation of cell lines that produce higher yields of proteins or antibodies

The CompoZr Custom ZFN service can be used to target genes from a variety of organisms. Validation of the custom ZFNs is completed in a proxy cell line for human, mouse, rat and hamster (CHO) projects. In this assay, the candidate ZFNs are delivered to the proxy cell line and activity is identified and measured. Activity is measured by amplifying over the ZFN target site and then using a nuclease mismatch enzyme to cut DNA strands that have been modified. ZFN efficiency can be measured based on the densitometry results of this assay. CompoZr Custom ZFN Projects for human, mouse, rat, and hamster (CHO) will have a production timeline of 10 weeks after the ZFN design is approved.

All Zinc Finger Nucleases are sold under license from Sangamo Biosciences. For a copy of the Label License provided with purchase of CompoZr ZFNs, please visit the ZFN Label License page.

CompoZr is a registered trademark of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany