Over the past 15 years, CRISPR/Cas has emerged as one of the most groundbreaking innovations in the life sciences, recognised by the 2020 Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna. Its simplicity, speed, and cost-effectiveness have made it a cornerstone of today’s genetic research. The technology holds transformative potential across diverse fields—from treating genetic disorders and strengthening crops to advancing microbial biotechnology.
In response, the ERC Scientific Council has initiated an analysis of how ERC-funded, curiosity-driven research has influenced the development and application of CRISPR/Cas, with the findings outlined in this report.
Since 2014, the ERC has funded 1 297 CRISPR/Cas projects across 24 countries, with a total investment of €2.66 billion and 1 329 researchers involved. Most projects are within the Life Sciences, where CRISPR/Cas adoption grew from 25% of projects in 2014 to over half by 2022.
Most CRISPR/Cas projects (86%) focus on basic research, deepening our understanding of biological mechanisms and human diseases, while 14% target practical applications in agriculture, biotechnology, and medicine. This growth highlights how ERC funding accelerates the adoption of breakthrough technologies, fostering innovation across multiple sectors.
Key areas of impact
CRISPR/Cas has opened new frontiers in both basic science and applied research, enabling researchers to tackle previously unanswerable questions.
ERC-funded projects are applying CRISPR/Cas to study cancer-related gene regulation and develop innovative RNA sequencing methods that could advance cancer therapies. Furthermore, CRISPR/Cas deepens our understanding of cell differentiation and brain development, offering critical insights into neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. In chronic disease research, CRISPR/Cas is enhancing diagnostics and enabling the development of therapies for conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, with a focus on stem cell behaviour and gut microbiota dynamics.
In agriculture and food security, ERC-funded CRISPR/Cas research is addressing pressing challenges such as climate change and population growth by improving crops and enhancing nutritional quality. Advances in microbial biotechnology are also driving industrial innovation, increasing the efficiency and sustainability of production processes, and enabling the creation of novel materials, such as specialised chemicals.
Over 30 ERC-funded CRISPR/Cas projects have resulted in patents, with some leading to the creation of spin-off companies. These achievements underscore the value of curiosity-driven research: it not only deepens our understanding of life’s complexities but also fuels innovation and delivers practical solutions with broad societal benefits, from healthcare to environmental sustainability.
