John Evans

Title: Innovations of John Evans in Base Editing

Introduction

John Evans is a notable inventor based in Cambridge, MA, who has made significant contributions to the field of genetic engineering. He holds two patents that focus on advanced methods for modifying polynucleotides, particularly in the context of base editing.

Latest Patents

One of his latest patents is titled "Compositions and methods for improving base editing." This invention features compositions and methods for modifying a polynucleotide, such as DNA, using a nucleobase editor. The editor comprises a first DNA binding protein domain that is catalytically inactive, a domain with base editing activity, and a second DNA binding protein domain that has nickase activity. Additionally, the invention includes a fusion protein that comprises a domain with base editing activity, such as cytidine deaminase or adenosine deaminase, along with two nucleic acid programmable DNA binding protein domains. These domains are linked together, with at least one having nickase activity and the other being catalytically inactive. The patent also outlines related methods for using these base editors and kits that include them.

Another significant patent by Evans is focused on "Methods of substituting pathogenic amino acids using programmable base editor systems." This patent provides compositions and methods for using base editors that include a polynucleotide programmable nucleotide binding domain and a nucleobase editing domain, in conjunction with a guide polynucleotide. It also describes base editor systems designed for editing nucleobases of target nucleotide sequences.

Career Highlights

John Evans is currently associated with Beam Therapeutics Inc., a company that specializes in precision genetic medicine. His work at Beam Therapeutics has positioned him at the forefront of innovative research in the field of gene editing.

Collaborations

Evans collaborates with notable colleagues, including Jason Michael Gehrke and David Bryson, who contribute to the advancement of research in genetic engineering and base editing technologies.

Conclusion

John Evans is a pioneering inventor whose work in base editing has the potential to revolutionize genetic engineering. His patents reflect a commitment to advancing the field and improving methods for genetic modification.