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WO2024168116A1 - Compositions d'édition génomique et méthodes de traitement de la dystrophie myotonique - Google Patents

Compositions d'édition génomique et méthodes de traitement de la dystrophie myotonique Download PDF

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WO2024168116A1
WO2024168116A1 PCT/US2024/014947 US2024014947W WO2024168116A1 WO 2024168116 A1 WO2024168116 A1 WO 2024168116A1 US 2024014947 W US2024014947 W US 2024014947W WO 2024168116 A1 WO2024168116 A1 WO 2024168116A1
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sequence
prime
pegrna
dna
editing
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John Benjamin STILLER
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Prime Medicine Inc
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Prime Medicine Inc
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    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12N—MICROORGANISMS OR ENZYMES; COMPOSITIONS THEREOF; PROPAGATING, PRESERVING, OR MAINTAINING MICROORGANISMS; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING; CULTURE MEDIA
    • C12N15/00—Mutation or genetic engineering; DNA or RNA concerning genetic engineering, vectors, e.g. plasmids, or their isolation, preparation or purification; Use of hosts therefor
    • C12N15/09—Recombinant DNA-technology
    • C12N15/11—DNA or RNA fragments; Modified forms thereof; Non-coding nucleic acids having a biological activity
    • C12N15/113—Non-coding nucleic acids modulating the expression of genes, e.g. antisense oligonucleotides; Antisense DNA or RNA; Triplex- forming oligonucleotides; Catalytic nucleic acids, e.g. ribozymes; Nucleic acids used in co-suppression or gene silencing
    • C12N15/1137—Non-coding nucleic acids modulating the expression of genes, e.g. antisense oligonucleotides; Antisense DNA or RNA; Triplex- forming oligonucleotides; Catalytic nucleic acids, e.g. ribozymes; Nucleic acids used in co-suppression or gene silencing against enzymes
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12N—MICROORGANISMS OR ENZYMES; COMPOSITIONS THEREOF; PROPAGATING, PRESERVING, OR MAINTAINING MICROORGANISMS; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING; CULTURE MEDIA
    • C12N2310/00—Structure or type of the nucleic acid
    • C12N2310/10—Type of nucleic acid
    • C12N2310/20—Type of nucleic acid involving clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats [CRISPR]
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C12—BIOCHEMISTRY; BEER; SPIRITS; WINE; VINEGAR; MICROBIOLOGY; ENZYMOLOGY; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING
    • C12N—MICROORGANISMS OR ENZYMES; COMPOSITIONS THEREOF; PROPAGATING, PRESERVING, OR MAINTAINING MICROORGANISMS; MUTATION OR GENETIC ENGINEERING; CULTURE MEDIA
    • C12N2310/00—Structure or type of the nucleic acid
    • C12N2310/30—Chemical structure
    • C12N2310/35—Nature of the modification
    • C12N2310/351—Conjugate
    • C12N2310/3519—Fusion with another nucleic acid

Definitions

  • the present invention describes dual prime editing as a genome editing approach for treating genetic diseases, for example, repeat expansion disorder myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1).
  • DM1 repeat expansion disorder myotonic dystrophy type 1
  • DM1 is an autosomal dominant neuromuscular disorder. Affected individuals display a wide range of symptoms including myotonia, skeletal muscle weakness and wasting, cardiac conduction abnormalities, and cataracts.
  • DM1 is associated with mutations in the DMPK gene.
  • the DMPK gene encodes the myotonic dystrophy protein kinase (DMPK protein).
  • the 3' untranslated region of the DMPK gene contains multiple copies of a CTG trinucleotide repeat.
  • the number of CTG repeats in the DMPK gene ranges from 5 to 34. Expansion of the CTG repeat numbers in the DMPK gene above a normal range results in increased number of repeats in the DMPK transcript, which can form stable double-stranded structures that have strong affinity for other functional proteins, e.g., proteins of the Muscleblind-like (MBNL) family, and prohibit the proteins from performing their normal functions.
  • the expanded repeats can also result in abnormal splicing patterns in adult tissues, which can affect expression of hundreds of genes.
  • the severity of DM1 symptoms is correlated with the number of abnormally expanded CTG repeats in the DMPK gene.
  • People with symptoms of DM1 including muscle weakness and wasting beginning in adulthood, usually have above 100 to 1000 CTG repeats. People bom with more severe, congenital form of DM1 tend to have more than 1,000 CTG repeats in their cells. People with mild form of DM1 symptoms usually have between 50 and 150 CTG repeats in their cells. While smaller number of CTG repeats may only relate to mild symptoms or may be asymptomatic, as the altered DMPK gene is passed from one generation to the next, the size of the CTG repeat expansion may increases in size. For example, people with 35 to 49 CTG repeats do not develop DM symptoms, but their children may be at risk of having the disorder if the number of CTG repeats increases.
  • This disclosure provides dual prime editing methods and compositions for editing the DMPK gene and removing pathogenic trinucleotide repeats associated withDMl.
  • the prime editing systems described herein comprise compositions, systems, and methods that relate to programmable editing of a double stranded target DNA, e.g., a target gene such as a DMPK gene, using two or more prime editing guide RNAs (PEgRNAs) each complexed with a prime editor (“dual prime editing”).
  • PEgRNAs prime editing guide RNAs
  • the compositions, systems, and methods described herein may be used to incorporate one or more intended nucleotide edits into the double stranded target DNA.
  • compositions, systems and methods relating to dual prime editing may be used to make alterations in a target sequence of a target gene, for example, a DMPK gene.
  • dual prime editing incorporates one or more intended nucleotide edits into the target DNA through excision of an endogenous DNA segment and/or replacement of the endogenous DNA segment with newly synthesized DNA via target-primed DNA synthesis.
  • Dual prime editing involves two different PEgRNAs each complexed with a prime editor.
  • each of the two PEgRNAs comprises a region of complementarity to a distinct search target sequence of a target DNA, for example a DMPK gene, wherein the two distinct search target sequences are on the two complementary strands of the target DNA.
  • the two PEgRNAs each can direct a prime editor to initiate the prime editing process on the two complementary strands of the target DNA, thereby incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits into the target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • a prime editing composition that comprises (A) a first prime editing guide RNA (PEgRNA) or one or more polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and (B) a second PEgRNA or one or more polynucleotides encoding the second PEgRNA, wherein the first PEgRNA comprises: (i) a first spacer that is complementary to a first search target sequence on a first strand of a DMPK gene, (ii) a first gRNA core capable of binding to a Cas9 protein; and (iii)a first extension arm comprising a first editing template and a first primer binding site (PBS), wherein the first spacer comprises at its 3’ end nucleotides 5-20 of a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs: 1, 23, and 45, and wherein the first PBS comprises at its 5' end a sequence that is the reverse complement of nucleotides 15-17 of the selected sequence; wherein the second PEgRNA
  • the second spacer comprises at its 3’ end nucleotides 5-20 of a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs:67, 89, and 111, and wherein the second PBS comprises at its 5’ end a sequence that is the reverse complement of nucleotides 15-17 of the selected sequence; and wherein (a) the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to the second editing template; (b) the first editing template comprises nucleotides 8-17 of the selected sequence for the second spacer, and the second editing template comprises nucleotides 8-17 of the selected sequence for the first spacer; or (c) the first editing template comprises nucleotides 8-17 of the selected sequence for the second spacer, and a region of complementarity to the second editing template, and the second editing template comprises nucleotides 8-17 of the selected sequence for the first spacer, and a region of complementarity to the first editing template.
  • the first PEgRNA further comprises at its 3’ end a motif comprising a sequence selected from Table 9.
  • the second PEgRNA further comprises at its 3’ end a motif comprising a sequence selected from Table 9.
  • the first PEgRNA further comprises at its 3’ end a motif comprising a sequence selected from SEQ ID NO: 142.
  • the second PEgRNA further comprises at its 3’ end a motif comprsing SEQ ID NO: 142.
  • the motif is directly connected to the 3’ end of the PBS.
  • the 3’ motif is connected to the 3’ end of the PBS via a linker and the linker may be 6 nucleotides in length.
  • the prime editing composition the first gRNA core and the second gRNA core comprise the same sequence.
  • the first gRNA core comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs 133-139.
  • the second gRNA core comprises a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs 133-139.
  • first gRNA core and the second gRNA core comprise the same sequence.
  • first gRNA core and/or the second gRNA core comprise SEQ ID NO: 135. In certain embodiments, the first gRNA core and the second gRNA core comprise SEQ ID NO: 134.
  • the first spacer is from 16 to 22 nucleotides in length.
  • the second spacer is from 16 to 22 nucleotides in length.
  • the first spacer comprises at its 3’ end the selected sequence.
  • the second spacer comprises at its 3’ end the selected sequence.
  • the first spacer is 20 nucleotides in length and comprises the selected sequence.
  • the second spacer is 20 nucleotides in length and comprises the selected sequence.
  • the first spacer, the first gRNA core, the first editing template, and the first PBS form a contiguous sequence in a single molecule.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises from 5’ to 3 ' the first spacer, the first gRNA core, the first editing template, and the first PBS.
  • the second spacer, the second gRNA core, the second editing template, and the second PBS form a contiguous sequence in a single molecule.
  • the second PEgRNA comprises from 5’ to 3’ the second spacer, the second gRNA core, the second editing template, and the second PBS.
  • the first PBS is 8-17 nucleotides in length and comprises at its 5’ end a sequence that is the reverse complement of nucleotides 10-17, 9-17, 8-17, 7-17,
  • the first PBS is 10 nucleotides in length.
  • the second PBS is 8-17 nucleotides in length and comprises at its 5’ end a sequence that is the reverse complement of nucleotides 10-17. 9-17. 8-17. 7- 17, 6-17, 5-17, 4-17, 3-17, 2-17, or 1-17 of the selected sequence for the second spacer.
  • the second PBS is 10 nucleotides in length.
  • the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to the second editing template.
  • the region of complementarity is about 20 to about 80 nucleotides in length.
  • the region of complementarity is about 20 to about 40 nucleotides in length.
  • the region of complementarity is 23-38 nucleotides in length.
  • the GC content of the region of complementarity is about 40% to about 80%.
  • the GC content of the region of complementarity is about 50% to about 80%.
  • the GC content of the region of complementarity is about 60% to about 80%.
  • the GC content of the region of complementarity' is at least 63%.
  • the GC content of the region of complementarity is 63%- 79%.
  • the first editing template comprises SEQ ID NO: 140 and the second editing template comprises SEQ ID NO: 141.
  • the first editing template comprises SEQ ID NO: 141 and the second editing template comprises SEQ ID NO: 140.
  • the first editing template comprises a 5’ fragment of SEQ ID NO: 140
  • the second editing template comprises a full length or 5’ fragment of SEQ ID NO: 141
  • at least 10 nucleotides at the 5' end of the first and second editing templates have perfect reverse complementarity to each other.
  • 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, or 37 nucleotides at the 5’ end of the first and second editing templates have perfect reverse complementarity to each other.
  • the first editing template comprises a 5’ fragment of SEQ ID NO: 141
  • the second editing template comprises a full length or 5’ fragment of SEQ ID NO: 140
  • at least 10 nucleotides at the 5‘ end of the first and second editing templates have perfect reverse complementarity' to each other.
  • a prime editing composition that comprises: (A) a first prime editing guide RNA (PEgRNA) comprising a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 17-22, 39-44, and 61-66, or one or more polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA, and (B) a second PEgRNA comprising a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 83-88, 105-110. and 127-132, or one or more polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA.
  • PEgRNA prime editing guide RNA
  • the first PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 18, 21, 22, 40, 43, 44, 62, 65, and 66.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 19-22, 41-44. and 63-66.
  • the second PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 83, 87, 88, 106, 109, 110, 128, 131, and 132.
  • the second PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 85-88, 107-110, 129-132.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 17-22, and wherein the second PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 83-88.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 39-44, and wherein the second PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 83-88.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 40-44, and wherein the second PEgRNA comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NOs 83-88.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO: 17, and wherein the second PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO 105.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO: 21, and wherein the second PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO 109.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO: 42. and wherein the second PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO 108.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO: 43
  • the second PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO 109.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO: 44. and wherein the second PEgRNA comprises SEQ ID NO 110.
  • a prime editing composition that comprises (A) a first prime editing guide RNA (PEgRNA) or one or more polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and (B) a second PEgRNA or one or more polynucleotides encoding the second PEgRNA, wherein the first PEgRNA comprises: (i) a first spacer that comprises at its 3’ end nucleotides 5-20 of a sequence selected from a 5’ Spacer sequence in any one of Tables 1-3, (ii) a first gRNA core capable of binding to a Cas9 protein; and (iii) a first extension arm that comprises a first editing template and a first primer binding site (PBS) comprising at its 5’ end a 5' PBS sequence selected from the same Table as the first spacer, wherein the second PEgRNA
  • PBS primer binding site
  • the first extension arm further comprises at its 3’ end a motif comprising SEQ ID NO: 142.
  • the second extension arm further comprises at its 3‘ end a motif comprising SEQ ID NO: 142.
  • the 3 ? motif is directly connected to the PBS at its 3’ end.
  • the 3’ motif is connected to the PBS at its 3’ end via a linker, and the linker may be 6 nucleotides in length.
  • the first spacer is 20 nucleotides in length and comprises the selected sequence.
  • the second spacer is 20 nucleotides in length and comprises the selected sequence.
  • the first PBS is 8-17 nucleotides in length and comprises at its 5’ end a sequence that is the reverse complement of nucleotides 10-17, 9-17, 8-17, 7-17, 6-17, 5-17, 4-17, 3-17, 2-17, or 1-17 of the selected sequence for the first spacer.
  • the first PBS is 10 nucleotides in length and comprises the selected sequence.
  • the second PBS is 10 nucleotides in length and comprises the selected sequence.
  • the second PBS is 8-17 nucleotides in length and comprises at its 5‘ end a sequence that is the reverse complement of nucleotides 10-17. 9-17. 8-17. 7- 17, 6-17, 5-17, 4-17, 3-17, 2-17, or 1-17 of the selected sequence for the second spacer.
  • the first gRNA core and/or the second gRNA core comprise a sequence selected from SEQ ID NOs 133-139.
  • the first gRNA core and the second gRNA core comprise the same sequence.
  • the first gRNA core and/or the second gRNA core comprise SEQ ID NO: 135.
  • the first gRNA core and the second gRNA core comprise SEQ ID NO: 134.
  • the first spacer, the first gRNA core, the first editing template form a contiguous sequence in a single molecule
  • the second spacer, the second gRNA core, the second editing template, and the second PBS form a contiguous sequence in a single molecule
  • the first PEgRNA comprises from 5’ to 3 ' the second spacer, the second gRNA core, the second editing template, and the second PBS
  • the second PEgRNA comprises from 5’ to 3’ the second spacer, the second gRNA core, the second editing template, and the second PBS.
  • the first PEgRNA and/or the second PEgRNA further comprises 3’ mN*mN*mN*N and 5'mN*mN*mN* modifications, where m indicates that the nucleotide contains a 2’-O-Me modification and a * indicates the presence of a phosphorothioate bond.
  • a prime editor or one or more polynucleotides encoding the prime editor wherein the prime editor comprises a Cas9 nickase having a nuclease inactivating mutation in the HNH domain and a reverse transcriptase.
  • the prime editor is a fusion protein.
  • the one or more polynucleotides comprise (a) a first sequence encoding an N-terminal portion of the Cas9 nickase and an intein-N and (b) a second sequence encoding an intein-C, a C-terminal portion of the Cas9 nickase, and the reverse transcriptase.
  • the prime editing composition comprises one or more vectors that comprise the first sequence and one or more vectors that comprise the second sequence.
  • one or more vectors comprises one or more polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA, the one or more polynucleotides encoding the second PEgRNA, and/or the one or more polynucleotides encoding the prime editor.
  • the one or more vectors are AAV vectors.
  • the one or more polynucleotides encoding the prime editor is mRNA.
  • an LNP comprises the prime editing composition.
  • One aspect provided herein is a method of editing a DMPK gene, the method comprising contacting the DMPK gene with (a) the prime editing composition of or any one of the aspects or embodiments described herein and a prime editor comprising a Cas9 nickase having a nuclease inactivation mutation in the HNH domain and a reverse transcriptase, (b) the prime editing composition of any one or any one of the aspects or embodiments described herein, or (c) the LNP of the disclosure or any one of the aspects or embodiments herein.
  • the DMPK gene is in a cell.
  • the cell is a mammalian cell.
  • the cell is a human cell.
  • the cell is a fibroblast, a myoblast, a myosatellite, a muscle progenitor cell, a cardiomyocyte, a differentiated muscle cell, a skeletal muscle cell, or a smooth muscle cell.
  • the cell is in a subject.
  • the subject is a human.
  • the cell is from a subject having myotonic dystrophy type 1.
  • a method for treating myotonic dystrophy type 1 in a subject in need thereof comprising administering to the subject (a) the prime editing composition of any one of the aspects or embodiments described herein and a prime editor comprising a Cas9 nickase having a nuclease inactivation mutation in the HNH domain and a reverse transcriptase, (b) the prime editing composition being any one of the aspects or embodiments described herein, (c) the LNP of the disclosure or any one of the aspects or embodiments described herein, (d) the cell generated as described in the disclosure or any one of the aspects or embodiments herein, or (e) the population of cells generated as described in the disclosure or any one of the aspects or embodiments herein. INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
  • FIG. 1 depicts a schematic of a prime editing guide RNA (PEgRNA) binding to a double stranded target DNA sequence.
  • PEgRNA prime editing guide RNA
  • FIG. 2 depicts a PEgRNA architectural overview in an exemplary schematic of PEgRNA designed for a prime editor.
  • FIG. 3 is a schematic showing the spacer and gRNA core part of an exemplary- guide RNA, in two separate molecules. The rest of the PEgRNA structure is not shown.
  • FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary schematic of a dual prime editing system for editing both strands of a double stranded target DNA. Same color/shading indicates complementarity- or identity- between sequences.
  • FIG. 4B depicts an exemplary- schematic of dual prime editing with a replacement duplex (RD) comprising an overlap duplex (OD). Same color/shading indicates complementarity or identity 7 between sequences.
  • RD replacement duplex
  • OD overlap duplex
  • FIG. 4C depicts an exemplary schematic of dual prime editing. Same color/shading indicates complementarity- or identity between sequences.
  • FIG. 4D depicts an exemplary schematic of dual prime editing. Same color/shading indicates complementarity or identity between sequences.
  • FIG. 4E depicts an exemplary schematic of dual prime editing. Same color/shading indicates complementarity- or identity- betyveen sequences.
  • FIG. 4F depicts an exemplary schematic of dual prime editing. Same color/shading indicates complementarity or identity between sequences.
  • FIG. 4G depicts an exemplary schematic of dual prime editing. Same color/shading indicates complementarity or identity between sequences.
  • compositions and methods to edit the target gene DMPK with dual prime editing are compositions and methods to edit the target gene DMPK with dual prime editing.
  • Compositions provided herein can comprise prime editors (PEs) tand engineered guide polynucleotides, e.g., prime editing guide RNAs (PEgRNAs), that can direct PEs to specific DNA targets and can encode DNA edits on the DMPK gene, including correction of disease-causing mutations in the DMPK gene.
  • PEs prime editors
  • PEgRNAs prime editing guide RNAs
  • nucleotide x. in a polynucleotide sequence refers to the nucleotide at position number x in the polynucleotide sequence from a 5’ to 3’ order.
  • a “cell” can generally refer to a biological cell.
  • a cell can be the basic structural, functional and/or biological unit of a living organism.
  • a cell can originate from any organism having one or more cells. Some non-limiting examples include: a prokaryotic cell, eukaryotic cell, a bacterial cell, an archaeal cell, a cell of a single-cell eukaryotic organism, a protozoa cell, a cell from a plant, an animal cell, a cell from an invertebrate animal (e.g. fruit fly.
  • a cell from a vertebrate animal e.g., fish, amphibian, reptile, bird, mammal
  • a cell from a mammal e.g., a pig, a cow, a goat, a sheep, a rodent, a rat, a mouse, a non-human primate, a human.
  • a cell may not originate from a natural organism (e.g., a cell can be synthetically made, sometimes termed an artificial cell).
  • the cell is a human cell.
  • a cell may be of or derived from different tissues, organs, and/or cell types.
  • the cell is a primary cell.
  • the term primary' cell means a cell isolated from an organism, e.g., a mammal, which is grown in tissue culture (i.e.. in vitro) for the first time before subdivision and transfer to a subculture.
  • mammalian primary cells can be modified through introduction of one or more polynucleotides, polypeptides, and/or prime editing compositions (e.g., through transfection, transduction, electroporation and the like) and further passaged.
  • Such modified mammalian primary cells include muscle cells (e.g., cardiac muscle cells, smooth muscle cells, myosatellite cells), epithelial cells (e.g., mammary epithelial cells, intestinal epithelial cells, hepatocytes), endothelial cells, glial cells, neural cells, formed elements of the blood (e.g., lymphocytes, bone marrow cells), precursors of any of these somatic cell types, and stem cells.
  • the cell is a fibroblast.
  • the cell is a human fibroblast.
  • the cell is a myogenic cell.
  • the cell is a myoblast.
  • the cell is a human myogenic cell.
  • the cell is a human myoblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a primary muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a myosatellite cell (a satellite cell). In some embodiments, the cell is a human myosatellite cell (a satellite cell). In some embodiments, the cell is a stem cell. In some embodiments, the cell is an embryonic stem cell (ESC). In some embodiments, the cell is an induced human pluripotent stem cell (iPSC). In some embodiments, the cell is a human stem cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a human embryonic stem cell.
  • ESC embryonic stem cell
  • iPSC induced human pluripotent stem cell
  • a cell is not isolated from an organism but forms part of a tissue or organ of an organism, e.g., a mammal.
  • mammalian cells include muscle cells (e.g., cardiac muscle cells, smooth muscle cells, myosatellite cells), epithelial cells (e.g., mammary' epithelial cells, intestinal epithelial cells, hepatocytes), endothelial cells, glial cells, neural cells, formed elements of the blood (e.g., lymphocytes, bone marrow cells), precursors of any of these somatic cell types, and stem cells.
  • the cell is a primary muscle cell.
  • the cell is a progenitor cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a differentiated cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a fibroblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a myogenic cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a myoblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a human myogenic cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a human myoblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a differentiated muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a myosatellite cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a skeletal muscle cell. In some embodiments, the skeletal muscle cell is differentiated from an iPSC, ESC or myosatellite cell.
  • the cell is a differentiated human cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a human fibroblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a differentiated human muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a human myosatelhte cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a human skeletal muscle cell. In some embodiments, the human skeletal muscle cell is differentiated from a human iPSC, human ESC or human myosatelhte cell. In some embodiments, a human myosatelhte cell is differentiated from a human iPSC or human ESC. [113] In some embodiments, the cell comprises a prime editor or a prime editing composition.
  • the cell comprises a dual prime editing composition comprising a prime editor and at least two PEgRNAs that are different from each other.
  • the cell is from a human subj ect.
  • the human subject has a disease or condition associated with one or more mutations to be corrected by prime editing, for example, myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1).
  • the cell is from a human subject, and comprises a prime editor or a prime editing composition for correction of the one or more mutations.
  • the cell is from the human subject and the mutation has been edited or corrected by prime editing.
  • the cell is in a human subject, and comprises a prime editor or a prime editing composition for correction of the one or more mutations.
  • the cell is from the human subject and the mutation has been edited or corrected by prime editing.
  • the term ‘‘substantially'’ as used herein may refer to a value approaching 100% of a given value. In some embodiments, the term may refer to an amount that may be at least about 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 99.9%, or 99.99% of a total amount. In some embodiments, the term may refer to an amount that may be about 100% of a total amount.
  • protein and “polypeptide” can be used interchangeably to refer to a polymer of two or more amino acids joined by covalent bonds (e.g, an amide bond) that can adopt a three-dimensional conformation.
  • a protein or polypeptide comprises at least 10 amino acids, 15 amino acids, 20 amino acids, 30 amino acids or 50 amino acids joined by covalent bonds (e.g.. amide bonds).
  • a protein comprises at least two amide bonds.
  • a protein comprises multiple amide bonds.
  • a protein comprises an enzyme, enzyme precursor proteins, regulatory protein, structural protein, receptor, nucleic acid binding protein, a biomarker, a member of a specific binding pair (e.g., a ligand or aptamer), or an antibody.
  • a protein may be a full-length protein (e g. , a fully processed protein having certain biological function).
  • a protein may be a variant or a fragment of a full-length protein.
  • a Cas9 protein domain comprises an H840A amino acid substitution compared to a naturally occurring S. pyogenes Cas9 protein.
  • a variant of a protein or enzyme for example a variant reverse transcriptase, comprises a polypeptide having an amino acid sequence that is about 60% identical, about 70% identical, about 80% identical, about 90% identical, about 95% identical, about 96% identical, about 97% identical, about 98% identical, about 99% identical, about 99.5% identical, or about 99.9% identical to the amino acid sequence of a reference protein.
  • a protein comprises one or more protein domains or subdomains.
  • polypeptide domain refers to a polypeptide chain that has one or more biological functions, e.g, a catalytic function, a protein-protein binding function, or a protein-DNA function.
  • a protein comprises multiple protein domains.
  • a protein comprises multiple protein domains that are naturally occurring.
  • a protein comprises multiple protein domains from different naturally occurring proteins.
  • a prime editor may be a fusion protein comprising a Cas9 protein domain of S. pyogenes and a reverse transcriptase protein domain of Moloney murine leukemia virus.
  • a protein that comprises amino acid sequences from different origins or naturally occurring proteins may be referred to as a fusion, or chimeric protein.
  • a protein comprises a functional variant or functional fragment of a full-length wild type protein.
  • a “functional fragment” or “functional portion”, as used herein, refers to any portion of a reference protein (e.g, a wild type protein) that encompasses less than the entire amino acid sequence of the reference protein while retaining one or more of the functions, e.g, catalytic or binding functions.
  • a functional fragment of a reverse transcriptase may encompass less than the entire amino acid sequence of a wild type reverse transcriptase, but retains the ability under at least one set of conditions to catalyze the polymerization of a polynucleotide.
  • a functional fragment thereof may retain one or more of the functions of at least one of the functional domains.
  • a functional fragment of a Cas9 may encompass less than the entire amino acid sequence of a wild type Cas9, but retains its DNA binding ability and lacks its nuclease activity partially or completely.
  • a “functional variant” or “functional mutant”, as used herein, refers to any variant or mutant of a reference protein (e.g., a wild type protein) that encompasses one or more alterations to the amino acid sequence of the reference protein while retaining one or more of the functions, e.g, catalytic or binding functions.
  • the one or more alterations to the amino acid sequence comprises amino acid substitutions, insertions or deletions, or any combination thereof.
  • the one or more alterations to the amino acid sequence comprises amino acid substitutions.
  • a functional variant of a reverse transcriptase may comprise one or more amino acid substitutions compared to the amino acid sequence of a wild type reverse transcriptase, but retains the ability under at least one set of conditions to catalyze the polymerization of a polynucleotide.
  • a functional variant thereof may retain one or more of the functions of at least one of the functional domains.
  • a functional variant of a Cas9 may comprise one or more amino acid substitutions in a nuclease domain, e.g. , an H840A amino acid substitution, compared to the amino acid sequence of a wild type Cas9. but retains the DNA binding ability and lacks the nuclease activity partially or completely.
  • the term “function” and its grammatical equivalents as used herein may refer to a capability of operating, having, or serving an intended purpose. Functional may comprise any percent from baseline to 100% of an intended purpose. For example, functional may comprise or comprise about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or up to about 100% of an intended purpose. In some embodiments, the term functional may mean over or over about 100% of normal function, for example, 125%, 150%, 175%, 200%, 250%, 300%. 400%, 500%, 600%. 700% or up to about 1000% of an intended purpose.
  • a protein or polypeptide includes naturally occurring amino acids (e.g., one of the twenty amino acids commonly found in peptides synthesized in nature, and known by the one letter abbreviations A, R, N, C, D, Q, E, G, H. I, L, K, M, F, P, S, T, W. Y and V).
  • a protein or polypeptides includes non-naturally occurring amino acids (e.g., amino acids that are not one of the twenty amino acids commonly found in peptides synthesized in nature, including synthetic amino acids, amino acid analogs, and amino acid mimetics).
  • a protein or polypeptide is modified.
  • a protein comprises an isolated polypeptide.
  • isolated means free or removed to varying degrees from components that normally accompany it as found in the natural state or environment. For example, a polypeptide naturally present in a living animal is not isolated, and the same polypeptide partially or completely separated from the coexisting materials of its natural state is isolated.
  • a protein is present within a cell, a tissue, an organ, or a virus particle.
  • a protein is present within a cell or a part of a cell (e.g., a bacteria cell, a plant cell, or an animal cell).
  • the cell is in a tissue, in a subject, or in a cell culture.
  • the cell is a microorganism (e.g., a bacterium, fungus, protozoan, or virus).
  • a protein is present in a mixture of analytes (e.g, a lysate).
  • the protein is present in a lysate from a plurality of cells or from a lysate of a single cell.
  • homology refers to the degree of sequence identity between an amino acid or polynucleotide sequence and a corresponding reference sequence.
  • “Homology” can refer to polymeric sequences, e.g., polypeptide or DNA sequences that are similar. Homology can mean, for example, nucleic acid sequences with at least about: 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% identity.
  • a “homologous sequence” of nucleic acid sequences may exhibit 93%, 95% or 98% sequence identity to the reference nucleic acid sequence.
  • a “region of homology to a genomic region” can be a region of DNA that has a similar sequence to a given genomic region in the genome.
  • a region of homology can be of any length that is sufficient to promote stable binding of a spacer, primer-binding site, or protospacer sequence to the complementary sequence of a genomic region.
  • the region of homology can comprise at least 5, 10, 11 , 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, 100, 200, 300.
  • sequence homology or identity generally refers to the alignment of two or more sequences across a portion of their length when compared and aligned for maximum correspondence. When a position in the compared sequence can be occupied by the same base or amino acid, then the molecules can be homologous at that position. Unless stated otherwise, sequence homology' or identity is assessed over the specified length of the nucleic acid, polypeptide or portion thereof. In some embodiments, the homology or identity is assessed over a functional portion or specified portion of the length.
  • Alignment of sequences for assessment of sequence homology can be conducted by algorithms known in the art, such as the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) algorithm, which is described in Altschul et al, J. Mol. Biol. 215:403- 410, 1990.
  • BLAST Basic Local Alignment Search Tool
  • a publicly available, internet interface, for performing BLAST analyses is accessible through the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Additional known algorithms include those published in: Smith & Waterman, “Comparison of Biosequences”, Adv. Appl. Math. 2:482, 1981; Needleman & Wunsch, “A general method applicable to the search for similarities in the amino acid sequence of two proteins” J. Mol. Biol. 48:443.
  • Examples of global alignment programs include NEEDLE (available at www.ebi.ac.uk/Tools/psa/emboss_needle/) which is part of the EMBOSS package (Rice P et al., Trends Genet, 2000; 16: 276-277), and the GGSEARCH program https://fasta.bioch.virginia.edu/fasta_www2/, w hich is part of the FASTA package (Pearson W and Lipman D, 1988, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 85: 2444-2448). Both of these programs are based on the Needleman-Wunsch algorithm which is used to find the optimum alignment (including gaps) of two sequences along their entire length.
  • amino acid (or nucleotide) positions may be determined in homologous sequences based on alignment, for example, “H840” in a reference Cas9 sequence may correspond to H839, or another position in a Cas9 homolog.
  • polynucleotide or “nucleic acid molecule” can be any polymeric form of nucleotides, including DNA, RNA. a hybridization thereof, or RNA-DNA chimeric molecules.
  • a polynucleotide comprises cDNA, genomic DNA. mRNA, tRNA, rRNA, or microRNA.
  • a polynucleotide is double stranded, e.g., a double-stranded DNA in a gene.
  • a polynucleotide is single-stranded or substantially single-stranded, e.g, single-stranded DNA or an mRNA.
  • a polynucleotide is a cell-free nucleic acid molecule. In some embodiments, a polynucleotide circulates in blood. In some embodiments, a polynucleotide is a cellular nucleic acid molecule. In some embodiments, a polynucleotide is a cellular nucleic acid molecule in a cell circulating in blood.
  • Polynucleotides can have any three-dimensional structure.
  • a gene or gene fragment for example, a probe, primer, EST or SAGE tag
  • an exon an intron
  • intergenic DNA including, without limitation, heterochromatic DNA
  • mRNA messenger RNA
  • tRNA transfer RNA
  • rRNA ribosomal RNA
  • a ribozyme a recombinant poly
  • RNA a nucleic acid probe, a primer, an snRNA, a long non-coding RNA, a snoRNA, a siRNA, a miRNA, a tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), an antisense RNA, an shRNA, or a small rDNA-derived RNA (srRNA).
  • srRNA small rDNA-derived RNA
  • a polynucleotide comprises deoxyribonucleotides, ribonucleotides or analogs thereof.
  • a polynucleotide comprises modified nucleotides, such as methylated nucleotides and nucleotide analogs. If present, modifications to the nucleotide structure can be imparted before or after assembly of the polynucleotide.
  • the sequence of nucleotides can be interrupted by non-nucleotide components.
  • a polynucleotide can be further modified after polymerization, such as by conjugation with a labeling component.
  • a polynucleotide is composed of a specific sequence of four nucleotide bases: adenine (A); cytosine (C); guanine (G); thymine (T); and uracil (U) for thymine when the polynucleotide is RNA.
  • the polynucleotide may comprise one or more other nucleotide bases, such as inosine (I), which is read by the translation machinery as guanine (G).
  • a polynucleotide may be modified.
  • the terms “modified” or “modification” refers to chemical modification with respect to the A, C, G, T and U nucleotides.
  • modifications may be on the nucleoside base and/or sugar portion of the nucleosides that comprise the polynucleotide.
  • the modification may be on the intemucleoside linkage (e.g, phosphate backbone).
  • multiple modifications are included in the modified nucleic acid molecule.
  • a single modification is included in the modified nucleic acid molecule.
  • Complement refers to the ability of two polynucleotide molecules to base pair with each other.
  • Complementary polynucleotides may base pair via hydrogen bonding, which may be Watson Crick, Hoogsteen or reversed Hoogsteen hydrogen bonding.
  • an adenine on one polynucleotide molecule will base pair to a thymine or uracil on a second polynucleotide molecule and a cytosine on one polynucleotide molecule will base pair to a guanine on a second polynucleotide molecule.
  • Two polynucleotide molecules are complementary to each other when a first polynucleotide molecule comprising a first nucleotide sequence can base pair with a second polynucleotide molecule comprising a second nucleotide sequence.
  • first polynucleotide molecule comprising a first nucleotide sequence
  • second polynucleotide molecule comprising a second nucleotide sequence.
  • the two DNA molecules 5’-ATGC-3’ and 5'- GCAT-3’ are complementary, and the complement of the DNA molecule 5’-ATGC-3’ is 5’- GCAT-3’.
  • a percentage of complementarity indicates the percentage of nucleotides in a polynucleotide molecule yvhich can base pair w ith a second polynucleotide molecule (e.g., 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 out of 10 being 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, and 100% complementary, respectively).
  • Perfectly complementary means that all the contiguous nucleotides of a polynucleotide molecule will base pair with the same number of contiguous nucleotides in a second polynucleotide molecule.
  • “Substantially complementary” as used herein refers to a degree of complementarity that can be 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, or 99% over all or a portion of two polynucleotide molecules.
  • the portion of complementarity may be a region of 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or more nucleotides.
  • the portion of complementarity between the tw o polynucleotide molecules is at least 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 97%. 98%, or 99% of the length of at least one of the two polynucleotide molecules or a functional or defined portion thereof.
  • expression refers to the process by which polynucleotides are transcribed into mRNA and/or the process by w hich polynucleotides, e.g., the transcribed mRNA, are translated into peptides, polypeptides, or proteins. If the polynucleotide is derived from genomic DNA, expression may include splicing of the mRNA in a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, expression of a polynucleotide, e.g, a gene or a DNA encoding a protein, is determined by the amount of the protein encoded by the gene after transcription and translation of the gene.
  • expression of a polynucleotide is determined by the amount of a functional form of the protein encoded by the gene after transcription and translation of the gene. In some embodiments, expression of a gene is determined by the amount of the mRNA, or transcript that is encoded by the gene after transcription of the gene. In some embodiments, expression of a polynucleotide, e.g., an mRNA, is determined by the amount of the protein encoded by the mRNA after translation of the mRNA.
  • expression of a polynucleotide is determined by the amount of a functional form of the protein encoded by the polypeptide after translation of the polynucleotide.
  • encode refers to a nucleic acid, in its native state or yvhen manipulated by methods yvell known to those skilled in the art, contains the information that can be used as a template for synthesis of another nucleic acid, amino acid, or polypeptide.
  • a DNA sequence can encode a RNA sequence and can serve as the template for transcription of the RNA sequence.
  • a RNA sequence can encode a DNA sequence and can serve as the template for reverse transcription of the DNA sequence.
  • a DNA or RNA sequence can encode a polypeptide sequence and can contain the information for the translation template of the polypeptide sequence.
  • one or more or a feyv nucleotides can be said to specifically encode a mutation or a desired nucleotide edit.
  • a polynucleotide comprising three contiguous nucleotides form a codon that encodes a specific amino acid.
  • a polynucleotide comprises one or more codons that encode a polypeptide.
  • a polynucleotide comprising one or more codons comprises a mutation in a codon compared to a wild-type reference polynucleotide.
  • the mutation in the codon encodes an amino acid substitution in a polypeptide encoded by the polynucleotide as compared to a wild-type reference polypeptide.
  • mutation refers to a change and/or alteration in an amino acid sequence of a protein or nucleic acid sequence of a polynucleotide. Such changes and/or alterations may comprise the substitution, insertion, deletion and/or truncation of one or more amino acids, in the case of an amino acid sequence, and/or nucleotides, in the case of nucleic acid sequence, compared to a reference amino acid or nucleic acid sequence.
  • a mutation in a polynucleotide may be insertion or expansion of one or more nucleotides, for example, expansion of three nucleotides (tri-nucleotide expansion).
  • the reference sequence is a wild-type sequence.
  • a mutation in a nucleic acid sequence of a polynucleotide encodes a mutation in the amino acid sequence of a polypeptide.
  • the mutation in the amino acid sequence of a polypeptide or the mutation in the nucleic acid sequence of a polynucleotide is a mutation associated with a disease state.
  • subject and its grammatical equivalents as used herein may refer to a human or a non -human.
  • a subject may be a mammal.
  • a human subject may be male or female.
  • a human subject may be of any age.
  • a subject may be a human embryo.
  • a human subject may be a newborn, an infant, a child, an adolescent, or an adult.
  • a human subject may be in need of treatment for a genetic disease or disorder.
  • treatment may refer to the medical management of a subject with an intent to cure, ameliorate, or ameliorate a symptom of, a disease, condition, or disorder.
  • Treatment may include active treatment, that is, treatment directed specifically toward the improvement of a disease, condition, or disorder.
  • Treatment may include causal treatment, that is, treatment directed toward removal of the cause of the associated disease, condition, or disorder.
  • this treatment may include palliative treatment, that is, treatment designed for the relief of symptoms rather than the curing of the disease, condition, or disorder.
  • Treatment may include supportive treatment, that is, treatment employed to supplement another specific therapy directed toward the improvement of the disease, condition, or disorder.
  • a condition may be pathological.
  • a treatment may not completely cure or prevent a disease, condition, or disorder. In some embodiments, a treatment ameliorates, but does not completely cure or prevent a disease, condition, or disorder. In some embodiments, a subject may be treated for 12 hours. 24 hours. 2 days. 3 days. 4 days. 5 days, 6 days, 7 days, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 2 months, 3 months, 4 months, 5 months, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years, 5 years, 6 years, indefinitely, or life of the subject.
  • ameliorate means to decrease, suppress, attenuate, diminish, arrest, or stabilize the development or progression of a disease.
  • the terms “prevent” or “preventing” means delaying, forestalling, or avoiding the onset or development of a disease, condition, or disorder for a period of time. Prevent also means reducing risk of developing a disease, disorder, or condition. Prevention includes minimizing or partially or completely inhibiting the development of a disease, condition, or disorder.
  • a composition e.g., a pharmaceutical composition, prevents a disorder by delaying the onset of the disorder for 12 hours. 24 hours. 2 days. 3 days.
  • ⁇ means having the ability to produce a biological response.
  • “effective amount” or “therapeutically effective amount” may refer to a quantity of a composition, for example a composition comprising a construct, that can be sufficient to result in a desired activity upon introduction into a subject as disclosed herein.
  • An effective amount of the prime editing compositions can be provided to the target gene or cell, whether the cell is in vitro, ex vivo or in vivo.
  • the amount of target gene modulation may be measured by any suitable method known in the art.
  • the “effective amount” or “therapeutically effective amount” is the amount of a composition that is required to ameliorate the symptoms of a disease relative to an untreated patient.
  • an effective amount is the amount of a composition sufficient to introduce an alteration in a gene of interest in a cell (e.g., a cell in vitro a ex vivo or in vivo).
  • An effective amount can be the amount to induce, when administered to a population of cells, at least about a 2-fold decrease in the number of cells that have expanded CTG repeat number in the DMPK gene.
  • An effective amount can be the amount to induce, when administered to a population of cells, at least about a 2-fold decrease in the number of cells that have 35 or more CTG repeats in a DMPK mRNA encoded by the DMPK gene.
  • an effective amount can be the amount to induce, for example, at least about 1.1-fold decrease, about 1.5 fold decrease, about 2-fold decrease, about 3-fold decrease, about 4-fold decrease, about 5-fold decrease, about 6-fold decrease, about 7-fold decrease, about 8-fold decrease, about 9-fold decrease, about 10-fold decrease, about 25-fold decrease, about 50-fold decrease, about 100-fold decrease, about 200-fold decrease, about 500-fold decrease, about 700-fold decrease, about 1000-fold decrease, about 5000-fold decrease, or about 10,000-fold decrease in the amount of DMPK transcripts having 35 or more CTG repeats.
  • construct refers to a polynucleotide or a portion of a polynucleotide, comprising one or more nucleic acid sequences encoding one or more transcriptional products and/or proteins.
  • a construct may be a recombinant nucleic acid molecule or a part thereof.
  • the one or more nucleic acid sequences of a construct are operably linked to one or more regulatory sequences, for example, transcriptional initiation regulatory' sequences.
  • a construct is a vector, a plasmid, or a portion thereof.
  • a construct comprises DNA.
  • a construct comprises RNA.
  • a construct is double stranded.
  • a construct is single stranded.
  • a construct comprises an expression cassette.
  • An expression cassette means a polynucleotide comprising a nucleic acid sequence that encodes one or more transcriptional products and is operably linked to at least one transcriptional regulatory sequence, e g., a promoter.
  • exogenous when used in reference to a biomolecule, e.g., a polynucleotide sequence or a polypeptide sequence refers to a biomolecule that is not native to a specific biological context, e.g., a gene, a particular chromosome, a particular cell or chromosomal site of the cell, tissue, or organism, or, if from the same source, is modified from its original form or is present in a non-native location, e.g.. a chromosome location.
  • endogenous when used in reference to a biomolecule, e.g., a polynucleotide sequence or a polypeptide sequence refers to a biomolecule that is native to or naturally occurring in a specific biological context, e.g., a gene, a particular chromosome, a particular cell or chromosomal site of the cell, tissue, or organism.
  • an endogenous sequence may be a wild type sequence or may comprise one or more mutations compared to a wild type sequence.
  • an endogenous sequence is mutated compared to a wild ty pe sequence and may cause or be associated with a disease or disorder in a subject.
  • a wild type sequence is a gene sequence found in healthy individuals, wherein the wild-type sequence does not include a mutation causative of the specific disease.
  • a wild type sequence in the context of repeat expansion disease, may be used to refer to a sequence that harbors an array of a specific tri- nucleotide repeats within a normal range.
  • the tri- nucleotide repeat is a CTG repeat in aDMPK gene, and a wild ty pe sequence of aDMPK gene may have 5 to 34 CTG repeats.
  • a “repeat expansion disorder” or “trinucleotide repeat disorder” or “expansion repeat disorder” refers to a set of genetic disorders which are caused by “trinucleotide repeat expansion,” which is a kind of mutation characterized by expanded number of repeats of a contiguous array of three nucleotides each having the same sequence, referred to as “trinucleotide repeats” or “triplet repeats”).
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats means at least two contiguous tri-nucleotides that are the same.
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats comprises 2, 3. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21. 22. 23. 24. 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37. 38. 39. 40. 41,
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats comprises at least 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 550, 600, 650, 700, 750, 800, 850, 900, 950, 1000, 1050, 1100, 1150, 1200, 1250, 1300, 1350, 1400, 1450, or 1500 repeats of the same tri-nucleotides.
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats comprises about 50 to 100, about 100 to 150. about 150 to 200, about 200 to 250, about 250 to 300, about 300 to 400, about 400 to 500, about 500 to 600, about 600 to 700, about 700 to 800, about 800 to 900, about 900 to 1000 repeats of the same tri -nucleotides. In some embodiments, an array of tri -nucleotide repeats comprises more than 1000 repeats of the same tri-nucleotides. In some embodiments, an array of tri-nucleotide repeats comprises about 5 to 10. 5 to 15. 5 to 20, 5 to 25, 5 to 30, 5 to 35.
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats is in a non-coding region of a gene.
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats is in a regulatory sequence, e.g., a promoter, of a gene. In some embodiments, an array of tri-nucleotide repeats is in an upstream sequence or a dow nstream sequence of a gene. In some embodiments, an array of tri-nucleotide repeats is in a coding region of a gene. In some embodiments, an array of tri-nucleotide repeats encodes an array of amino acid repeats.
  • the number of repeats of the same tri- nucleotides in an array of tri-nucleotide repeats is altered as compared to the number of repeats in a reference array of tri-nucleotide repeats, for example, the number of repeats in a wild type gene sequence.
  • the number of repeats of the same tri- nucleotides in an array of tri -nucleotide repeats is increased as compared to the number of repeats in a reference array of tri-nucleotide repeats, for example, the number of repeats in a wild type gene sequence.
  • the altered or increased number of repeats in an array of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of the same repeats in a wild type gene sequence is associated with a disease.
  • prime editing may comprise programmable editing of a target DNA using one or more prime editors each complexed with a PEgRNA (“dual prime editing’").
  • Dual prime editing refers to programmable editing of a double stranded target DNA using two or more PEgRNAs, each of which is complexed w ith a prime editor for incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits into the double stranded target DNA.
  • dual prime editing incorporates one or more intended nucleotide edits into a double stranded target DNA through excision of an endogenous DNA segment and/or replacement of the endogenous DNA segment with newly synthesized DNA via target- primed DNA synthesis.
  • dual prime editing may be used to edit a target DNA that is or is part of a target gene.
  • the target gene is a disease-associated gene.
  • the target gene is a monogenic disease- associated gene.
  • the target gene is a polygenic disease-associated gene.
  • the target gene is mutated compared to a wild-type sequence of the same gene and may cause or be associated with a disease or disorder in a subject.
  • the mutated target gene causes a disease or a disorder in a human subject.
  • Prime editing refers to programmable editing of a target DNA using a prime editor complexed with a PEgRNA to incorporate an intended nucleotide edit into the target DNA through target-primed DNA synthesis.
  • a target DNA may comprise a double stranded DNA molecule having two complementary strands.
  • the two complementary strands of a double stranded target DNA may comprise a strand that may be referred to as a “target strand” or a “non-edit strand”, and a complementary strand that may be referred to as a “non-target strand,” or an "edit strand.”
  • a spacer sequence is complementary or substantially complementary to a specific sequence on the target strand, which may be referred to as a “search target sequence”.
  • the spacer sequence anneals with the target strand at the search target sequence.
  • the target strand may also be referred to as the “non-Protospacer Adjacent Motif (non-PAM strand).”
  • the non-target strand may also be referred to as the “PAM strand”.
  • the PAM strand comprises a protospacer sequence and optionally a PAM sequence.
  • a protospacer sequence refers to a specific sequence in the PAM strand of the target gene that is complementary to the search target sequence.
  • a spacer sequence may have a substantially identical sequence as the protospacer sequence on the edit strand of a target gene, except that the spacer sequence may comprise Uracil (U) and the protospacer sequence may comprise Thymine (T).
  • dual prime editing involves using two different PEgRNAs each complexed with a prime editor, wherein each of the two PEgRNAs comprises a spacer complementary or substantially complementary to a separate search target sequence.
  • each of the two PEgRNAs anneals with a separate search target sequence through its spacer. Accordingly, references to a “PAM strand”, a “non-PAM strand”, a “target strand’, a “non-target strand”, an “edit strand” or a “non-edit strand” are relative in the context of a specific PEgRNA, e.g., one of the two PEgRNAs in dual prime editing.
  • dual prime editing involves two PEgRNAs. different from one another, each complexed with a prime editor.
  • each of the two PEgRNAs comprises a region of complementarity to a distinct search target sequence of the target DNA, wherein the two distinct search target sequences are on the two complementary strands of the target DNA.
  • region region
  • portion and “segment” are used interchangeably to refer to a proportion of a molecule, for example, a polynucleotide or a polypeptide.
  • a region of a polynucleotide may be 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% of the polynucleotide.
  • the two PEgRNAs each can direct a prime editor to initiate the prime editing process on the two complementary strands of the target DNA.
  • a second PEgRNA comprises a second spacer complementary to a second search target sequence on a second strand of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first strand and the second strand of the double stranded target DNA are complementary to each other. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the second PEgRNA and the first PEgRNA bind opposite strands of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the second strand of the double stranded target DNA may be referred to as a second target strand, and the complementary strand referred to as the second PAM strand.
  • the second PEgRNA comprises a second spacer having complementarity to a second search target sequence on the coding strand of DMPK, and is capable of directing a prime editor to nick the non- coding strand at a second nick site that is 5 ’ to the CAG repeats (that is, the position corresponding to the second nick site on the coding strand is 3’ to the CTG repeats).
  • An exemplary dual prime editing strategy for editing the DMPK gene is provided in Fig. 4A, where the first strand (bottom) is the non-coding strand, and the second strand (top) is the coding strand.
  • the first search target sequence recognized by the spacer of the first PEgRNA and the second search target sequence recognized by the spacer of the second PEgRNA do not have a region of complementarity to each other.
  • the positions of the first and second search target sequences relative to each other may be determined by their positions in the double stranded target DNA prior to editing. In some embodiments, the positions of the first and second search target sequences relative to each other may be determined by their positions in a reference double stranded target DNA.
  • the 3’ end of the first search target sequence and the position corresponding to the 3’ end of the second search target sequence are 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
  • the 3’ end of the first search target sequence and the position corresponding to the 3’ end of the second search target sequence are about 110, 120, 130, 140.
  • the 3’ end of the first search target sequence and the position corresponding to the 3’ end of the second search target sequence are about 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800. 1900, 2000 or more nucleotides apart from each other.
  • the 3’ end of the first search target sequence and the position corresponding to the 3’ end of the second search target sequence are about 150 to about 450 nucleotides apart from each other. In some embodiments, the 3’ end of the first search target sequence and the position corresponding to the 3 ’ end of the second search target sequence are about 105 to about 145 nucleotides apart from each other. In some embodiments, the 3’ end of the first search target sequence and the position corresponding to the 3' end of the second search target sequence are about 300 to about 3000 nucleotides apart from each other. In some embodiments, the 3 ’ end of the first search target sequence and the position corresponding to the 3 ’ end of the second search target sequence at least about 3000 nucleotides apart from each other.
  • a first PEgRNA comprises a first primer binding site (PBS, also referred to herein as “primer binding site sequence”) that is complementary’ to the sequence of the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA that is immediately upstream of the first nick site, and can anneal with the sequence of the first PAM strand at a free 3’ end formed at the first nick site.
  • PBS primer binding site
  • a first PEgRNA comprises a first primer binding site (PBS) that anneals to a free 3‘ end formed at the first nick site and the first prime editor initiates DNA synthesis from the nick site, using the free 3 ’ end as a primer.
  • the first prime editor generates a first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by a first editing template of the first PEgRNA.
  • the bound second prime editor generates a second nick on the second PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the double stranded target DNA e.g., a target gene
  • the double stranded target DNA comprises a double stranded DNA sequence between the first nick generated by the first prime editor on the second target strand (also referred to as the first PAM strand) and the second nick generated by the second prime editor on the first target strand (also referred to as the second PAM strand), which may be referred to as an inter-nick duplex (IND).
  • the two strands of an IND are perfectly complementary to each other.
  • the two strands of an IND are partially complementary to each other.
  • the IND is subsequently excised from the double stranded target DNA, e g., the target gene.
  • the IND is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16,
  • the IND is up to 5, up to
  • the IND is 1-3000, 1-2500, 1-2000, 1-1500, 1-1000, 1-900, 1-800, 1-700, 1- 600, 1-500, 1-400, 1-300, 1-200, 1-100, 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-25, 1-20, 1-15, 1-10, or 1-5 base pairs in length.
  • the IND is 500-3000, 500-2500, 500-2000, 500-1500, 500-1000. 500-900. 500-800, 500-700, or 500-600 base pairs in length.
  • the IND is 30-300, 30-250, 30-200, 30-150, 30-100, 30-75, 30-50, 50-200, 50-150, 50-100, 50-75, 75-100, 75-150, 75-200, 75-250, 75-300 base pairs in length.
  • the IND is 1-3, 1-6, 1-9, 1-12, 1-15, 1-18, 1-21, 1-24, 1-27, 1-30, 1-36, 1-45, 1-60, 1-72, 1-90, 3-6, 3-9, 3-12, 3-15, 3-18, 3-21, 3-24, 3-27, 3-30, 3-36, 3-45, 3-60, 3- 72, 3-90, 6-9, 6-12, 6-15, 6-18, 6-21, 6-24, 6-27, 6-30, 6-36, 6-45, 6-60, 6-72, 6-90, 9-12, 9- 15, 9-18, 9-21, 9-24, 9-27, 9-30, 9-36, 9-45, 9-60, 9-72, 9-90, 12-15, 12-18, 12-21, 12-24, 12-27, 12-30, 12-36, 12-45, 12-60, 12-72, 12-90, 15-18, 15-21, 15-24, 15-27, 15-30, 15-36,
  • the IND is 1-3000, 1-2500, 1-2000, 1-1500, 1-1000, 1-900, 1-800, 1-700, 1-600, 1-500, 1-400, 1-300, 1-200. 1-100, 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-25, 1-20, 1-15, 1-10, 1-5. 500-3000, 500-2500, 500-2000, 500-1500. 500-1000, 500-900, 500-800, 500-700, 500-600, 30-300, 30-250.
  • the IND is 1-3, 1-6, 1-9, 1-12, 1-15, 1-
  • the IND is about 150 to about 450 base pairs in length. In some embodiments, the IND is about 105 to about 145 base pairs in length. In some embodiments, the IND is about 300 to about 3000 base pairs in length. In some embodiments, the IND is more than about 3000 base pairs in length.
  • the double stranded target DNA is a double stranded target gene or a part of a double stranded target gene
  • the IND comprises a part of a coding sequence of the target gene.
  • the IND comprises a part of a non- coding sequence of the target gene.
  • the IND comprises a part of an exon.
  • the IND comprises an entire exon.
  • the IND comprises a part of an intron.
  • the IND comprises an entire intron.
  • the IND comprises a 3’ UTR sequence of the target gene.
  • the IND comprises a 5’ UTR sequence of the target gene.
  • the IND comprises a whole or a part of an ORF of the target gene. In some embodiments, the IND comprises both coding and non-coding sequences of the target gene. In some embodiments, the IND comprises both intron and exon sequences of the target gene. For example, in some embodiments, the IND comprises the sequence of an exon flanked by an intronic sequence at the 5’ end, the 3’ end, or both ends. In some embodiments, the IND comprises one or more exons and intervening introns. In some embodiments, the IND comprises two or more exons and intervening introns.
  • the IND comprises all of the coding regions of a target gene, regulatory sequences of a target gene, or the entire target gene comprising its exons, introns and regulatory sequences.
  • the double stranded DNA comprises a gene or a part of a gene, and the IND comprises one or more mutations compared to a wild type reference sequence of the same gene.
  • the one or more mutations are associated with a disease.
  • the IND comprises an array of three nucleotide repeats (or tri-nucleotide repeats).
  • the IND comprises an array of tri-nucleotide repeats, wherein the number of the tri-nucleotide repeats is associated with a disease.
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats means at least two tri-nucleotides that are the same.
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats comprises at least 10, 20, 30, 50, 100.
  • an array of tri-nucleotide repeats comprises at least 34 tri-nucleotide repeats. In some embodiments, an array of tri-nucleotide repeats comprises at least 50 tri-nucleotide repeats. In some embodiments, an array of tn-nucleotide repeats comprises at least 100 tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • an array of tri- nucleotide repeats comprises at least 1000 tri -nucleotide repeats. In some embodiments, an array of tri -nucleotide repeats is in a non-coding region of a gene, for example, a 3’ UTR, of a gene. In some embodiments, the array of tri-nucleotide repeats is an array of CTG (or the reverse complement CAG) repeats.
  • a first PEgRNA comprises a first primer-binding site (PBS) that is complementary to a free 3‘ end of the second strand of the double stranded target DNA formed at the first nick site.
  • PBS primer-binding site
  • the first PBS anneals with the free 3’ end formed at the first nick site, and the first prime editor initiates DNA synthesis from the first nick site, using the free 3’ end at the first nick site as a primer.
  • the first prime editor synthesizes a first new single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template of the first PEgRNA.
  • the second PEgRNA comprises a second PBS that is complementary to a free 3’ end of the first strand of the double stranded target DNA formed at the second nick site.
  • the second PBS anneals with the free 3’ end formed at the second nick site, and the second prime editor initiates DNA synthesis from the nick site, using the free 3‘ end at the second nick site as a primer.
  • the second prime editor synthesizes a second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by a second editing template of the second PEgRNA.
  • the sequence of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and/or the sequence of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template is incorporated into the double stranded target DNA, e g., a target gene, thereby incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • nucleotide edit or an “intended nucleotide edit” refers to a specified edit of a double stranded target DNA.
  • a nucleotide edit or intended nucleotide edit refers to a (i) deletion of one or more contiguous nucleotides at one specific position, (ii) insertion of one or more contiguous nucleotides at one specific position, (iii) substitution of one or more contiguous nucleotides, or (iv) a combination of contiguous nucleotide substitutions, insertions and/or deletions of two or more contiguous nucleotides at one specific position, or other alterations at one specific position to be incorporated into the sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • An intended nucleotide edit may refer to the edit on an editing template (e.g., a first editing template or a second editing template) as compared to the sequence of the double stranded target gene, or may refer to the edit encoded by an editing template in the newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is incorporated in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, as compared to endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e g., the DMPK gene.
  • an editing template e.g., a first editing template or a second editing template
  • an intended nucleotide edit may also refer to the edit that results from incorporation of the newly synthesized DNA encoded by an editing template, or incorporation of the two newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by each of the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA in dual prime editing.
  • the sequence of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and/or the sequence of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA are incorporated into the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the first and/or the second newly synthesized single stranded DNAs comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, which are incorporated in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the sequence of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template is incorporated in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, thereby incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the sequence of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template is incorporated in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, thereby incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the sequence of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the sequence of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template are incorporated in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. thereby incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises an insertion, deletion, nucleotide substitution, inversion, or any combination thereof compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 1. 2, 3, 4. 5. 6, 7, 8. 9, 10, 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18, 19, 20 or more nucleotide substitutions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises up to 5, up to 10, up to 15, up to 20, up to 25, up to 30, up to 40, or up to 50 nucleotide substitutions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 1- 50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-25, 1-20, 1-15, 1-10, or 1-5 nucleotide substitutions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 3-50, 3-40, 3-30, 3-25, 3-20, 3-15, 3- 10, or 3-5 nucleotide substitutions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises 5-50, 5-40, 5-30, 5-25, 5-20, 5-15, or 5-10 nucleotide substitutions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 1. 2, 3, 4. 5, 6, 7, 8. 9,
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises up to 5, up to 10, up to 15. up to 20, up to 25, up to 30, up to 40, or up to 50 nucleotide insertions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises single nucleotide insertions at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises nucleotide insertions of greater than one nucleotide at each site in the double stranded target DNA compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • site refers to a specific position in the sequence of a target DNA. e.g., a target gene.
  • the specific position in the sequence of the double stranded target DNA can be referred to by specific positions in a reference sequence, e.g., a wild type gene sequence.
  • a nucleotide insertion at position x refers to insertion of one or more nucleotides between position x and position x+1 as set forth by numbering in a reference sequence.
  • a nucleotide deletion at position x refers to deletion of the specific nucleotide at position x as set forth by numbering in a reference sequence.
  • a nucleotide deletion of positions x to x+n refers to deletion of the specific nucleotides starting at nucleotide x to nucleotide x+n, including nucleotide x and nucleotide x+n, as set forth by numbering in a reference sequence.
  • a nucleotide inversion of positions x to x+n refers to inversion of the specific nucleotides starting at nucleotide x to nucleotide x+n, including nucleotide x and nucleotide x+n, as set forth by numbering in a reference sequence.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises nucleotide insertions of greater than one nucleotide at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or more sites in the double stranded target DNA compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 1-3000, 1-2500, 1-2000, 1-1500, 1-1000, 1-900, 1-800, 1-700, 1- 600, 1-500, 1-400, 1-300, 1-200, 1-100, 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-25, 1-20, 1-15, 1-10, or 1-5 nucleotide insertions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 500-3000.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 30-300, 30-250, 30-200, 30-150. 30-100, 30-75. 30-50, 50-200, 50-150, 50-100, 50-75. 75-100, 75-150, 75-200, 75-250, or 75-300 nucleotide insertions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises nucleotide insertions of 1-3000, 1- 2500, 1-2000, 1-1500, 1-1000, 1-900, 1-800, 1-700, 1-600, 1-500, 1-400, 1-300, 1-200, 1- 100, 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-25, 1-20, 1-15. 1-10. 1-5, 500-3000, 500-2500, 500-2000, 500- 1500, 500-1000, 500-900, 500-800. 500-700. 500-600. 30-300, 30-250, 30-200.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 1, 2. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or more nucleotide deletions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises up to 5, up to 10, up to 15, up to 20, up to 25, up to 30, up to 40, or up to 50 nucleotide deletions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises single nucleotide deletions at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 19.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises nucleotide deletions of greater than one nucleotide at each site in the double stranded target DNA compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises nucleotide deletions of greater than one nucleotide at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or more sites in the double stranded target DNA compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit compnses 1-3000, 1-2500, 1-2000, 1-1500, 1-1000, 1-900, 1-800, 1-700, 1-600, 1-500, 1-400, 1-300, 1-200, 1-100, 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-25, 1-20, 1-15, 1-10, or 1-5 nucleotide deletions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 500-3000, 500- 2500, 500-2000, 500-1500, 500-1000, 500-900, 500-800, 500-700, or 500-600 nucleotide deletions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 30-300, 30-250, 30-200, 30-150, 30-100, 30-75, 30-50, 50-200, 50-150, 50-100, 50-75. 75-100, 75-150, 75- 200. 75-250, 75-300 nucleotide deletions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises deletion of about 105-145 nucleotides at a site of the target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises deletion of about 150-450 nucleotides at a site of the target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises deletion of about 300-3000 nucleotides at a site of the target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises deletion of more than about 3000 nucleotides at a site of the target gene, e.g., tins DMPK gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises 1-3, 1-6, 1-9, 1-12, 1- 15, 1-18, 1-21, 1-24, 1-27, 1-30, 1-36, 1-45, 1-60, 1-72, 1-90, 3-6, 3-9, 3-12, 3-15, 3-18, 3- 21, 3-24, 3-27, 3-30, 3-36, 3-45, 3-60, 3-72, 3-90, 6-9, 6-12, 6-15, 6-18, 6-21, 6-24, 6-27, 6- 30, 6-36, 6-45, 6-60, 6-72, 6-90, 9-12, 9-15, 9-18, 9-21, 9-24, 9-27, 9-30, 9-36, 9-45, 9-60, 9-72, 9-90, 12-15, 12-18, 12-21, 12-24, 12-27, 12-30, 12-36, 12-45, 12-60, 12-72, 12-90, 15- 18, 15-21, 15-24, 15-27, 15-30, 15-36, 15-45, 15-60, 15-72, 15-90, 18-21, 18-24,
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises nucleotide deletions of 1-3000. 1-2500, 1-2000, 1-1500. 1-1000, 1-900.
  • 1-800 1-700, 1-600, 1-500, 1- 400, 1-300, 1-200, 1-100, 1-50, 1-40, 1-30, 1-25, 1-20, 1-15, 1-10, 1-5, 500-3000, 500-2500, 500-2000, 500-1500, 500-1000, 500-900, 500-800, 500-700, 500-600, 30-300, 30-250, 30- 200, 30-150, 30-100, 30-75, 30-50, 50-200, 50-150, 50-100, 50-75, 75-100, 75-150, 75-200, 75-250, or 75-300 nucleotides at each site in the double stranded target DNA compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises nucleotide deletions of 1-3, 1-6, 1-9, 1- 12, 1-15, 1-18, 1-21, 1-24, 1-27, 1-30, 1-36, 1-45, 1-60, 1-72, 1-90, 3-6, 3-9, 3-12, 3-15, 3-
  • the intended nucleotide edits are in consecutive or contiguous nucleotides in the double stranded target DNA sequence compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edits e.g., nucleotide substitutions, insertions, or deletions are in non-consecutive or non-contiguous nucleotides in the double stranded target DNA sequence compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises an inversion as compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • a segment of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 200, 250, 300 or more nucleotides of the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA is inverted.
  • a segment of 1-50. 1-40. 1-30. 1-25. 1-20. 1-15. 1-10. or 1-5 nucleotides of the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA is inverted.
  • a segment of 3-50, 3-40, 3-30, 3-25, 3-20, 3-15, 3-10, 3-5, 5-50, 5-40, 5-30, 5-25, 5-20, 5-15, or 5-10 nucleotides of the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA is inverted.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises more than one nucleotide edit in the double stranded target DNA sequence compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises a combination of one or more of nucleotide substitutions, one or more of nucleotide insertions, one or more of nucleotide deletions and one or more of nucleotide inversions compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions and one or more nucleotide insertions. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions and one or more nucleotide deletions. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions and one or more nucleotide inversions. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide insertions and one or more nucleotide deletions. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide insertions and one or more nucleotide inversions.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide deletions and one or more nucleotide inversions. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions, one or more nucleotide insertions and one or more nucleotide deletions. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions, one or more nucleotide insertions and one or more nucleotide inversions. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions, one or more nucleotide deletions and one or more nucleotide inversions.
  • the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide insertions, one or more nucleotide deletions and one or more nucleotide inversions. In some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions, one or more nucleotide insertions, one or more nucleotide deletions and one or more nucleotide inversions.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA have a region of complementarity to each other.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, adjacent to or near a nick site.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the target gene, on the first strand adjacent to the second nick site.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, on the first strand adjacent to and downstream of the second nick site. In some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA e.g., the target gene, on the second strand adjacent to and dow nstream of the first nick site. In some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target on the second strand adjacent to and upstream of the second nick site.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, adjacent to or near a nick site. In some embodiments, the second newly- synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, on the second strand adjacent to the first nick site.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity- to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, on the second strand adjacent to and downstream of the first nick site. In some embodiments, the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, on the first strand adjacent to and upstream of the second nick site.
  • reference for positioning in a chromosome or a double stranded polynucleotide, e.g., a double stranded target DNA includes the position on either strand of the two strands, unless otherwise specified.
  • a position of a first nick site may be used refer to the first nick site on the first edit strand and/or the corresponding position on the second edit strand.
  • upstream and downstream it is intended to define relative positions of at least two nucleotides, regions, or sequences in a nucleic acid molecule oriented in a 5'-to-3' direction according to a reference strand of the nucleic acid molecule.
  • a first nucleotide is upstream of a second nucleotide when the first nucleotide is 5’ to the second nucleotide.
  • a first sequence is upstream of a second sequence in a DNA molecule where the first sequence is positioned 5 ‘ to the second sequence according to a reference strand of the DNA molecule. Accordingly, the second sequence is downstream, that is, 3’, of the first sequence.
  • each of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, adjacent to or near a nick site.
  • each of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, adjacent to or near a nick site.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the target gene, on the first strand adjacent to and upstream of the second nick site
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, on the second strand adjacent to and upstream of the first nick site.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA on the second strand adjacent to and downstream of the first nick site and/or a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA on the second strand adj acent to and downstream of the position corresponding to the second nick site
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA has a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA on the first strand adjacent to and downstream of the first nick site and/or a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA on the first strand adjacent to and downstream of the position corresponding to the first nick site.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template have a region of complementarity to each other.
  • the complementary region between the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA may be referred to as an overlap duplex (OD).
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template are substantially complementary to each other.
  • the OD is incorporated in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, thereby incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits encoded by the first editing template and the second editing template into the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the OD replaces all or a portion of the IND, thereby incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the IND is excised or degraded, and the OD is incorporated at the place of the IND excision, followed by ligation of the nicks on both strands of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene, thereby incorporating the one or more intended nucleotide edits in the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence of the OD comprises partial identity compared to the sequence of the IND. In some embodiments, the sequence of the OD comprises no identity compared to the sequence of the IND. In some embodiments, the sequence of the OD comprises a sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first editing template and the second editing template comprise a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to each other, and do not have complementarity to either strand of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template can anneal to each other to form an OD that does not have substantial sequence identity with the endogenous sequence of double stranded target DNA. e.g., the target gene.
  • the sequence of the OD comprises a sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. In some embodiments, the sequence of the OD consists of a sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. In some embodiments, the IND is excised, and the OD is incorporated at the place of the IND excision, followed by ligation of the nicks on both strands of the target DNA. thereby incorporating the sequence of the OD in the double stranded target DNA.
  • the OD comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 or more contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD comprises about 5 to 10. 5 to 15. 5 to 20, 5 to 25, 5 to 30. 5 to 35. 5 to 40, 5 to 45, 5 to 50, 5 to 55. 5 to 60.
  • the OD comprise 10, 1 1, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 or 25 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary' base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD comprise 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary’ base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD comprise no greater than 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80. 90. or 100 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD comprises a sufficient number of contiguous complementary base pairs to form a sufficiently stable duplex for replacement of the IND. In some embodiments, the OD comprises at least 10 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD comprises at least 15 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD comprises about 20 contiguous complementary' or substantially complementary base pairs.
  • the OD contains about 20 to 40 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD contains about 20, about 30. about 40, about 50, about 60, about 70, or about 80 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD contains about 10 to 19 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD contains about 20 to 30 contiguous complementary' or substantially complementary' base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD contains about 30 to 40 contiguous complementary’ or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD contains at least 40contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD consists of about 20 to 40 contiguous complementary' or substantially complementary base pairs.
  • the OD consists of about 20, about 30. about 40, about 50, about 60, about 70, or about 80 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD consists of about 10 to 19 contiguous complementary' or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD consists of about 20 to 30 contiguous complementary' or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD consists of about 30 to 40 contiguous complementary’ or substantially complementary base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD consists of 23, 38, 53, 68, or 83 contiguous complementary or substantially complementary' base pairs. In some embodiments, the OD consists of 38 contiguous complementary' or substantially complementary base pairs.
  • the sequence of the OD can comprises any exogenous sequence or any endogenous sequence of the DMPK gene.
  • the GC content of the OD may vary. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is less than about 45%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 45%-60%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 60%- 75%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is at least about 75%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 40%-80%.ln some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 50%-60%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 60%-80%.
  • the GC content of the OD is about 60%-70%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 70%-80%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 10%-20%, about 20%-30%, about 30%-40%, about 40%- 50%, about 50%-60%, about 60%-70%, about 70%-80%, about 80%-90% or about 90%- 100%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 42%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 53%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 63%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 71%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 79%. In some embodiments, the GC content of the OD is about 63%.
  • the OD replaces the IND of a target DNA, wherein the double stranded target DNA is an entire target gene or is part of a target gene. In some embodiments, the OD replaces part of an exon or an entire exon, part of an intron or an entire intron, one or more exons and intervening introns, all of the coding regions of a target gene, regulatory sequences of a target gene, or the entire target gene comprising its exons, introns and regulatory 7 sequences. In some embodiments, the OD comprises a region of identity 7 to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the OD does not have sequence identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the OD is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the OD has a biological function or encodes a polypeptide having a biological function, or a portion thereof.
  • the OD comprises an expression cassette.
  • the OD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes an expression tag, for example, an affinity tag, a His tag, a V5 tag, or a FLAG tag.
  • the OD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a His tag.
  • the OD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a FLAG tag.
  • the OD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes an attB or an attP sequence.
  • the OD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a reporter protein, for example, a green fluorescence protein, a blue fluorescence protein, a cyan fluorescence protein, a yellow fluorescence protein, an auto fluorescent protein, or a luciferase.
  • the OD comprises a recognition site of an enzy me, for example, a recombinase recognition sequence.
  • the OD comprises nucleotide sequence that encodes a selectable marker, for example, an antibiotic resistance marker.
  • the OD comprises a regulatory sequence, for example, a promoter, an enhancer, or an insulator.
  • the OD comprises a trackable sequence, for example, a barcode.
  • replacement of the IND by the OD restores or partially restores the function of the target gene.
  • the target gene is a disease-associated gene.
  • the target gene is a monogenic disease-associated gene.
  • the target gene is a polygenic disease-associated gene.
  • the target gene is a disease-associated gene containing one or more disease-causing mutations, wherein replacement of the IND by the OD corrects the mutations, thereby restoring or partially restoring the function of the target gene.
  • the disease-associated gene containing one or more disease- causing mutations is in a human subject in need of treatment.
  • the target gene is a mutated gene causing a disease or disorder in a human subj ect, wherein replacement of the IND by the OD corrects the mutated gene, thereby restoring or partially restoring the function of the target gene.
  • the target gene is a disease- associated gene containing one or more disease-causing mutations, wherein replacement of the IND by the OD modifies the target gene to restore or partially restore the function of the target gene.
  • the disease-associated gene containing one or more disease-causing mutations is in a human subject in need of treatment.
  • the target gene is a mutated gene causing a disease or disorder in a human subject, wherein replacement of the IND by the OD modifies the mutated gene to restore or partially restore the function of the target gene.
  • the first editing template and/or the second editing template comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a polypeptide sequence that is the same as, or a portion of. the polypeptide sequence encoded by the IND, but does not have substantial nucleotide sequence complementarity or identity to the sequence of the IND.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a polypeptide sequence that is the same as, or a portion of, the polypeptide sequence encoded by the IND, but does not have substantial nucleotide sequence complementarity or identity to the sequence of the IND.
  • the OD comprises a sequence that encodes a polypeptide sequence that is the same as the polypeptide sequence or a portion of the same polypeptide sequence encoded by the IND, wherein the OD does not have substantial nucleotide sequence identity to the sequence of the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity' with each other, and can anneal with each other to form an OD.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template further comprises a region that does not have complementarity with the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template (see exemplar ⁇ ' schematic in FIG. 4B).
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template further comprises a region that does not have complementarity with the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template can anneal to each other through the partially complementary' sequences to form an OD that is linked to a 5’ overhang and/or a 3’overhang. In some embodiments, the IND is removed, the OD, along with the 5 ? overhang and/or the 3 ?
  • the overhang is incorporated at the place of the IND excision in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the gaps corresponding to the positions of the 5’ overhang and/or the 3’ overhangs are filled and ligated, thereby incorporating the one or more intended nucleotide edits in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the IND is replaced by the sequence of (A+C), (B+C), or (A+B+C), wherein A is the region, and its complementary' strand, of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is not complementary' to the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA, wherein B is the region, and its complementary strand, of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is not complementary to the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA, and wherein C is the OD.
  • the double stranded sequence of (A+C), (B+C), or (A+B+C) that replaces the IND may be referred to as the “replacement duplex (RD)’”.
  • the RD comprises the OD.
  • the first editing template and the second editing template are substantially' complementary' to each other.
  • the OD comprises the entirety or substantially the entirety' of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template.
  • the RD consists of the OD. In some embodiments, as exemplified in FIG.
  • the RD comprises the OD, the non-complementary region of the first newly synthesized DNA compared to the second newly synthesized DNA and complement thereof, and/or the non-complementary region of the second newly synthesized DNA compared to the first newly synthesized DNA and complement thereof.
  • the RD comprises 1, 2, 3, 4. 5, 6, 7. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200 or more base pairs.
  • the RD comprises about 5 to 10, 5 to 15, 5 to 20, 5 to 25, 5 to 30, 5 to 35, 5 to 40, 5 to 45, 5 to 50, 5 to 55, 5 to 60, 5 to 65. 5 to 70, 5 to 75, 5 to 80, 5 to 85. 5 to 90, 5 to 95, 5 to 100, 5 to 110, 5 to 120, 5 to 130, 5 to 140. 5 to 150. 5 to 175.
  • the RD comprise 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32. 33. 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48. 49, or 50 base pairs. In some embodiments, the RD comprise at least 30. 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100.
  • the RD comprise no greater than 20, 25, 30, 35. 40. 50. 60. 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130. 140, 150, 160, 170, 180. 190, 200.
  • the RD replaces the IND of a target DNA, wherein the IND is an entire target gene or is part of a target gene. In some embodiments, the RD replaces part of an exon or an entire exon, part of an intron or an entire intron, one or more exons and intervening introns, all of the coding regions of a target gene, regulatory sequences of a target gene, or the entire target gene comprising its exons, introns and regulator ⁇ ' sequences, thereby incorporating the one or more intended nucleotide edits compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the RD comprises a region of i dent i ty to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the RD does not have sequence identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the RD is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the intended nucleotide edit(s) comprises replacement of an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e g., the DMPK gene, in its entirety, by the sequence of the RD.
  • the RD has a biological function or encodes a polypeptide having a biological function.
  • the RD comprises an expression cassette.
  • the RD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes an expression tag, for example, an affinity tag, a His tag, a V5 tag, or a FLAG tag.
  • the RD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a His tag.
  • the RD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a FLAG tag.
  • the RD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes an attB or an attP sequence.
  • the RD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a reporter protein, for example, a green fluorescence protein, a blue fluorescence protein, a cyan fluorescence protein, a yellow fluorescence protein, an auto fluorescent protein, or a luciferase.
  • the RD comprises a recognition site of an enzyme, for example, a recombinase recognition sequence.
  • the RD comprises a nucleotide sequence that encodes a selectable marker, for example, an antibiotic resistance marker.
  • the RD comprises a regulatory sequence, for example, a promoter, an enhancer, or an insulator.
  • the RD comprises a trackable sequence, for example, a barcode.
  • replacement of the IND by the RD restores or partially restores the function of the target gene.
  • the target gene is a disease-associated gene.
  • the target gene is a monogenic disease-associated gene.
  • the target gene is a polygenic disease-associated gene.
  • the target gene is a disease-associated gene containing one or more disease-causing mutations, wherein replacement of the IND by the RD corrects the mutations, thereby restoring or partially restoring the function of the target gene.
  • the disease-associated gene containing one or more disease- causing mutations is in a human subject in need of treatment.
  • the target gene is a mutated gene causing a disease or disorder in a human subj ect, wherein replacement of the IND by the RD corrects the mutated gene, thereby restoring or partially restoring the function of the target gene.
  • the target gene is a disease- associated gene containing one or more disease-causing mutations, wherein replacement of the IND by the RD modifies the target gene to restore or partially restore the function of the target gene.
  • the disease-associated gene containing one or more disease-causing mutations is in a human subject in need of treatment.
  • the target gene is a mutated gene causing a disease or disorder in a human subject, wherein replacement of the IND by the RD modifies the mutated gene to restore or partially restore the function of the target gene.
  • the first editing template and the second editing template are partially complementary' to each other.
  • the first editing template is partially complementary to the second editing template when the first and the second editing templates have complementary or substantially complementary region(s) over part of the length of both editing templates.
  • the partially complementary region(s) in the first editing template and the second editing template can be in any position within the first editing template and the second editing template.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template are partially complementary to each other, at any position within the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA, at or near the 3’ end of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA, at or near the 5’ end of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA. In some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA, in the middle of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA, at or near the 3’ end of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA. In some embodiments, the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA. at or near the 5' end of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA. In some embodiments, the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA, in the middle of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA each comprises a region of complementarity 7 to each other at the 3' end of each of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA.
  • the first editing template and the second editing template are of the same length. In some embodiments, the first editing template and the second editing template are of different lengths.
  • the first editing template comprises a region that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template (the OD encoding region), and further comprises a region that does not have complementarity to the second editing template.
  • the first editing template comprises a region that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template (the OD encoding region), wherein the region is flanked by one or more regions that do not have complementarity to the second editing template.
  • the entirety of the first editing template has complementarity or substantial complementarity to a region of the second editing template, wherein the second editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity to the first editing template.
  • the first editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity to the second editing template, wherein the region is about 5 to 10, 5 to 15, 5 to 20, 5 to 25. 5 to 30, 5 to 35, 5 to 40, 5 to 45, 5 to 50, 5 to 55, 5 to 60, 5 to 65, 5 to 70, 5 to 75, 5 to 80, 5 to 85. 5 to 90, 5 to 95, 5 to 100, 5 to 110, 5 to 120. 5 to 130.
  • the first editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity to the second editing template, wherein the region is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,
  • the second editing template comprises a region that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to the first editing template, and further comprises a region that does not have complementarity to the first editing template.
  • the second editing template comprises a region that has complementarity or substantial complementarity' to the first editing template, and is flanked by one or more regions that do not have complementarity to the first editing template.
  • the region(s) in the first editing template and the second editing template may have same or different lengths.
  • the entirety’ of the second editing template has complementarity' or substantial complementarity' to a region of the first editing template, wherein the first editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity to the second editing template.
  • the second editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity’ to the first editing template, wherein the region is about 5 to 10, 5 to
  • 5 to 20 15, 5 to 20, 5 to 25, 5 to 30, 5 to 35, 5 to 40, 5 to 45, 5 to 50, 5 to 55, 5 to 60, 5 to 65, 5 to 70, 5 to 75, 5 to 80, 5 to 85, 5 to 90, 5 to 95, 5 to 100, 5 to 110, 5 to 120, 5 to 130, 5 to 140, 5 to 150, 5 to 175. 5 to 200.
  • the second editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity to the first editing template, wherein the region is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150. 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220 ,230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 330. 340, 350, 360, 370, 380. 390, 400, 410, 420, 430, 440, 450. 460, 470, 480, 490. or 500 or more nucleotides in length.
  • the RD comprises a region (or a subset) of the sequence of the IND. In some embodiments, the RD consists of a region of the sequence of the IND. In some embodiments, the RD comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits compared to the IND. In some embodiments, the RD comprises a region(s) that has substantial sequence identity to the sequence of the IND, wherein the region(s) comprises one or more nucleotide edits compared to the sequence of the IND. For example, the RD may comprise a region that has substantial sequence identity 7 to the sequence of the IND, wherein the region comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions, insertions, or deletions.
  • the RD comprises a region of the sequence of the IND, and further comprises a region that does not have sequence identity or complementary to the IND. In some embodiments, the RD comprises a region that has substantial identity 7 to the sequence of the IND comprising one or more nucleotide edits, and further comprises a region that does not have sequence identity or complementary to the IND. In some embodiments, the region that does not have sequence identity or complementary to the IND has a biological function or encodes a polypeptide or a portion thereof having a biological function. In some embodiments, the RD comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits compared to the IND and encodes a polypeptide or a portion thereof.
  • the OD comprises a region (or a subset) of the sequence of the IND. In some embodiments, the OD consists of a region of the sequence of the IND. In some embodiments, the OD comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits compared to the IND. In some embodiments, the OD comprises a region(s) that has substantial sequence identity to the sequence of the IND. wherein the region(s) comprise one or more nucleotide edits compared to the sequence of the IND. For example, the OD may comprise a region that has substantial sequence identity 7 to the sequence of the IND, wherein the region comprises one or more nucleotide substitutions, insertions, or deletions.
  • the OD comprises a region of the sequence of the IND. and further comprises a region that does not have sequence identity or complementary to the IND. In some embodiments, the OD comprises a region that has substantial identity to the sequence of the IND comprising one or more nucleotide edits, and further comprises a region that does not have sequence identity or complementarity to the IND. In some embodiments, the region that does not have sequence identity or complementarity to the IND has a biological function or encodes a polypeptide or a portion thereof having a biological function. In some embodiments, the OD comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits compared to the IND and encodes a polypeptide or a portion thereof.
  • the IND comprises an array of nucleotide motifs. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of three nucleotide repeats (or tri-nucleotide repeats). In some embodiments, the IND has an array of 5-10, 5-15, 5-20, 5-25, 5-30, 5-35, 5-40, 5-50, 5-60, 5-70, 5-80, 5-90, 5-100, 20-30, 20-40, 20-50, 20-60, 20-70, 20-80, 20-90, 20-100, 35- 40, 35-50, 35-60, 35-70, 35-80, 35-90, 35-100, 50-70, 50-80, 50-90, 50-100, 50-150, 50- 200, 50-250, 50-300, 50-350, 50-400, 50-450, 50-500, 50-550, 50-600, 50-650, 50-700, 50- 750.
  • the IND has an array of more than 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1000 repeats. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of more than 1000 repeats. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of more than 1500 repeats. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of 35-50 CTG repeats. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of 35-49 CTG repeats. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of 50-1000 CTG repeats. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of 100-1000 CTG repeats. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of 50-150 CTG repeats. In some embodiments, the IND has an array of more than 1000 CTG repeats.
  • the first editing template comprises a region of identity to a sequence adjacent to the second nick site on the second PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the second editing template comprises a region of identity to a sequence adjacent to the first nick site on the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence adjacent to the second nick site on the second PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA. wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence adjacent to the first nick site on the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence immediately adjacent to the second nick site on the second PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence immediately adjacent to the first nick site on the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA. wherein the sequence is outside the IND (see. e.g., FIG. 4F).
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence adjacent to the second nick site on the second PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND, and is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. 8, 9, or 10 nucleotides apart from the second nick site.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence adjacent to the first nick site on the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND, and is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 nucleotides apart from the first nick site.
  • the IND consists of all tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the DMPK gene.
  • the IND is excised, and the tri-nucleotide repeats are deleted from the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • incorporation of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA results in incorporation of one or more intended nucleotide edits, which comprise deletion of the array of the tri-nucleotide repeat sequence.
  • incorporation of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA results incorporation of one or more intended nucleotide edits, which comprise deletion of the array of the tri-nucleotide repeat sequence and deletion of the one or more base pairs upstream and/or downstream of the array of trinucleotide repeat sequence.
  • the first editing template and the second editing template each comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to each other.
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the second editing template comprise a sequence that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence in the first editing template that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the sequence in the second editing template that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence in the first editing template that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA further comprises a region that is not complementary to the sequence in the second editing template that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence in the second editing template that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the sequence in the first editing template that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence in the second editing template that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA further comprises a region that is not complementary to the sequence in the first editing template that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises a polynucleotide sequence that encodes an expression tag, for example, an affinity 7 tag, a His tag, a V5 tag, or a FLAG tag.
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises an attB or an attP sequence.
  • the second editing template comprises a sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises a polynucleotide sequence that encodes an expression tag, for example, an affinity tag, a His tag, a V5 tag, or a FLAG tag.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA each comprises a region of complementarity 7 or substantial complementarity to each other.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprise a sequence that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprise a sequence that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence in the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the sequence in the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the sequence in the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA further comprises a region that is not complementary to the sequence in the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence in the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the sequence in the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the sequence in the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA further comprises a region that is not complementary to the sequence in the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA form an OD that comprises a sequence that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the DMPK gene.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA form an RD that comprises a sequence that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the DMPK gene.
  • the IND comprises substantially all or all tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the DMPK gene.
  • the IND is excised and is replaced by the RD.
  • the IND is excised and is replaced by the RD.
  • substantially all or all tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene are deleted and replaced by the sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises a polynucleotide sequence that encodes an expression tag, for example, an affinity tag, a His tag, a V5 tag, or a FLAG tag.
  • the sequence exogenous to the double stranded target DNA comprises an attB or an attP sequence. Accordingly, in some embodiments, incorporation of the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion of array of the tri-nucleotide repeat sequence and incorporation of one or more exogenous sequences encoded by the first editing template and/or the second editing template.
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the second editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the first and/or the second editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene, e.g..
  • the DMPK gene wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene does not comprise the array of CTG tri- nucleotide repeat of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, which has complementarity or substantial complementarity to the first and/or the second editing template does not comprise an array of tri-nucleotide repeat or any nucleotide repeat structure.
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity 7 or substantial complementarity' to an endogenous sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the DMPK gene, is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity' or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the second editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity' or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. e.g., the DMPK gene, is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the second editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity' or substantial complementarity’ to an endogenous sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, is dow nstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of the trinucleotide- repeats, wherein the endogenous sequence is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20. 21. 22. 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36. 37. 38, 39, 40,
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of the trinucleotide-repeats, wherein the endogenous sequence is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16. 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31. 32, 33, 34, 35, 36,
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of the trinucleotide- repeats, wherein the endogenous sequence is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 1 1, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40,
  • the first editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of the trinucleotide-repeats, wherein the endogenous sequence is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 1 1, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36,
  • the second editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of the trinucleotide- repeats, wherein the endogenous sequence is 2. 3, 4, 5. 6, 7, 8. 9. 10. 1 1. 12. 13. 14. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40,
  • the second editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of the trinucleotide-repeats, wherein the endogenous sequence is 2. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. 10. 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36,
  • the second editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of the trinucleotide- repeats, wherein the endogenous sequence is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20. 21. 22. 23. 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36. 37. 38. 39, 40,
  • the second editing template comprises a sequence that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of the trinucleotide-repeats, wherein the endogenous sequence is 2. 3, 4, 5. 6, 7, 8, 9. 10. 11. 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40. 41. 42. 43. 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56. 57. 58. 59. 60,
  • the sequence of the first editing template that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA comprises a region of complementarity' or substantial complementarity' to the sequence of the second editing template that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the sequence of the first editing template that complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA further comprises a region that is not complementary to the sequence of the second editing template that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • sequence of the second editing template that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA comprises a region of complementarity' or substantial complementarity to the sequence of the first editing template that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the sequence of the second editing template that has complementarity or substantial complementarity' to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA further comprises a region that is not complementary to the sequence of the first editing template that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first new ly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a sequence that has identity' or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a sequence that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and/or the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a sequence that has identity' or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g..
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a sequence that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a sequence that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA. e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. e.g., the DMPK gene, is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a sequence that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a sequence that has identity' or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the array of tri -nucleotide repeats of the DMPK gene is an array of CTG repeats on the coding strand (the second strand) or the reverse complement CAG repeats on the non-coding strand (the first strand).
  • the sequence of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the sequence of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that has identity' or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that has identity or substantial identity' to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA further comprises a region that is not complementary' to the sequence of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that has identity' or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the sequence of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that has identity’ or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA further comprises a region that is not complementary to the sequence of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that has identity or substantial identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA form an OD that comprises an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the DMPK gene.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly- synthesized single stranded DNA form an RD that comprises an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the DMPK gene.
  • the RD or the OD comprises an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, that is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the RD or the OD comprises an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the DMPK gene, that is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the RD or the OD comprises a sequence that is endogenous compared to the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, wherein the sequence comprises two regions: a) a region that is identical or substantially identical to an endogenous sequence upstream of the array of the tri-nucleotide repeats, and b) a region that is identical or substantially identical to an endogenous sequence downstream of the array of the tri- nucleotide repeats.
  • the region identical or substantially identical to the endogenous sequence upstream of the array of the trinucleotide-repeats is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22. 23. 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56.
  • the region identical or substantially identical to the endogenous sequence downstream of the array of the trinucleotide-repeats is 2, 3, 4. 5, 6, 7. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36. 37. 38. 39. 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52. 53. 54. 55. 56,
  • the region identical or substantially identical to the endogenous sequence upstream of the array of the trinucleotide-repeats is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33.
  • the region identical or substantially identical to the endogenous sequence upstream of the array of the trinucleotide- repeats is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25,
  • the array of tri-nucleotide repeats of the DMPK gene is an array of CTG (or CAG) repeats.
  • the IND comprises all tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the entire array of CTG (or the reverse complement CAG) repeats of the DMPK gene. In some embodiments, the IND comprises all tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the entire array of CTG (or CAG) repeats of the DMPK gene, and further comprises one or more base pairs upstream and/or downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the IND is excised and is replaced by the RD or the OD.
  • all tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA e.g., the entire array of CTG (or CAG) repeats of the DMPK gene, are deleted, and the endogenous sequence upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats is retained.
  • all tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA e.g. the entire array of CTG (or CAG) repeats of the DMPK gene are deleted, and the endogenous sequence downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats is retained.
  • the IND comprises all tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA, e.g. the DMPK gene.
  • the first editing template has a different number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the first editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the second editing template has a different number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the second editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri- nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template has a different number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template has a different number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA can form an OD or a RD that comprises a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the OD has an array of the same nucleotide repeat motifs, for example, CTG repeats, but of a different number compared to the number of the tri- nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the RD has an array of the same nucleotide repeat motifs, for example, CTG repeats, but of a different number compared to the number of the tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND.
  • the OD has a reduced number of the tri-nucleotide repeats, e.g., CTG repeats compared to the endogenous number of tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the RD has a reduced number of the tri-nucleotide repeats, e.g., CTG repeats, compared to the endogenous number of tri-nucleotide repeats of the double stranded target DNA. e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the RD contains at most 30, 20, 10, or 5 CTG tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the RD contains 30, 20, 10, or 5 CTG tri-nucleotide repeats. In some embodiments, the OD contains at most 30, 20, 10, or 5 CTG tri-nucleotide repeats. In some embodiments, the OD contains 30, 20, 10, or 5 CTG tri- nucleotide repeats. In some embodiments, the OD contains 5 CTG repeats. In some embodiments, the RD contains 5 CTG repeats. In some embodiments, the RD or the OD contains the same number of tri-nucleotide repeats as a reference gene, for example, a wild type DMPK gene.
  • excision of the IND and incorporation of the RD results in deletion of a portion of the nucleotide repeats sequences of the IND from the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the target gene.
  • excision of the IND and incorporation of the OD results in deletion of a portion of the nucleotide repeats sequences of the IND from the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the deletion comprises at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or more tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the deletion comprises 1-3. 1-5, 1-10, 1-15, 1-20, 1-25, 1-30, 1-35, 1-40, 1-45, 1-50, 1-55, 1-60, 1-75 or more tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the deletion comprises deletion of at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 tri-nucleotide repeats from the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. In some embodiments, the deletion comprises deletion of 1-3, 1-5, 1-10, 1-15, 1-20, 1-25, 1-30, 1-35, 1-40, 1-45, 1-50, 1-55, 1-60, 1-75 or more tri-nucleotide repeats from the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the deletion comprises deletion of 5-10, 5-15, 5-20, 5-25, 5-30, 5-35, 5-40, 5-50, 5-60, 5-70, 5-80, 5-90, 5-100, 20-30, 20-40, 20-50, 20-60, 20-70, 20-80, 20-90, 20-100, 35-40, 35-50, 35-60. 35-70, 35-80, 35-90. 35-100, 50-70.
  • 400-1450 400-1500, 500-550. 500-600. 500-650. 500-700. 500-750. 500-800, 500-850, 500-900, 500-950, 500-1000, 500-1050, 500-1100, 500-1150, 500-1200, 500- 1250, 500-1300, 500-1350, 500-1400, 500-1450, 500-1500, 600-650, 600-700, 600-750, 600-800, 600-850, 600-900, 600-950, 600-1000, 600-1050, 600-1100, 600-1150, 600-1200, 600-1250.
  • the deletion comprises deletion of 100, 200.
  • the deletion comprises deletion of more than 1000 trinucleotide repeats from the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the first editing template has a reduced number of tri- nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND. and further comprises a region that is complementary or substantially complementary to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is dow nstream of the array of tri- nucleotide repeats.
  • the first editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND, and further comprises a) a region that is complementary or substantially complementary to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats, and b) a region that is complementary or substantially complementary to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the second editing template has a reduced number of tri- nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND. and further comprises a region that is complementary' or substantially complementary to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of tri- nucleotide repeats.
  • the second editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND, and further comprises a) a region that is complementary or substantially complementary to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats, and b) a region that is complementary or substantially complementary to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND. and further comprises a region that is identical or substantially identical to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template has a reduced number of tri -nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri- nucleotide repeats in the IND, and further comprises a) a region that is identical or substantially identical to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats, and b) a region that is identical or substantially identical to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND, and further comprises a region that is identical or substantially identical to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND, and further comprises a) a region that is identical or substantially identical to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats, and b) a region that is identical or substantially identical to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the array of tri-nucleotide repeats.
  • the RD or the OD has a reduced number of tri- nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND, and further comprises a double stranded sequence of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream or downstream of the IND.
  • the RD or the OD has a reduced number of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the number of tri-nucleotide repeats in the IND, and further comprises a double stranded sequence of the double stranded target DNA that is upstream of the IND, and a double stranded sequence of the double stranded target DNA that is downstream of the IND.
  • the IND is removed, and the sequence of the RD or the OD is incorporated into the double stranded target DNA.
  • the sequence of the RD or the OD is incorporated into the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first editing template and/or the second editing template is partially complementary, substantially complementary. or identical to the sequence of the IND.
  • the first editing template comprises a region that is complementary or identical to a region of a sequence of the IND.
  • the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to the sequence on the first PAM strand of the IND.
  • the first editing template further comprises a region of complementarity' to the second editing template.
  • the first editing template is partially complementary, substantially complementary or identical to a sequence of the IND, and is also substantially complementary to the second editing template.
  • the second editing template comprises a region that is complementary or identical to a region of a sequence of the IND. In some embodiments, the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity' to the sequence on the second PAM strand of the IND. In some embodiments, the second editing template further comprises a region of complementarity to the first editing template. In some embodiments. the second editing template is partially complementary, substantially complementary or identical to a sequence of the IND, and is also substantially complementary to the first editing template. In some embodiments, the first editing template and the second editing template each comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence of the IND.
  • the partially complementary region(s) in the first editing template and the second editing template can be in any position within the first editing template and the second editing template. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template are partially complementary to each other, at any position within the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template. In some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the first strand of the IND, at or near the 3 ’ end of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the first strand of the IND, at or near the 5 ’ end of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA. In some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the first strand of the IND, in the middle of the first newly- synthesized single stranded DNA. In some embodiments, the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the second strand of the IND, at or near the 3’ end of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the second strand of the IND, at or near the 5’ end of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA. In some embodiments, the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises a region of complementarity to the second strand of the IND, in the middle of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA. In some embodiments, the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA each comprises a region of complementarity to each other at the 3’ end.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template comprises a region that is identical to a region of the sequence on the first PAM strand of the IND.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region that is identical to a region of the sequence on the second PAM strand of the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises two or more sub regions, each of which is identical to a sub region of the sequence on the first PAM strand of the IND (as exemplified in FIG. 4D).
  • the sub regions on the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and/or the first PAM strand of the IND may or may not be consecutive.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA may comprise 2 sub regions each identical to a sub region of the sequence on the first PAM strand of the IND, wherein the two sub regions of the sequence on the first PAM strand of the IND are separated by a region that does not have identity or substantial identity to the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA comprises two or more sub regions, each of which is identical to a sub region of the sequence on the second PAM strand of the IND (as exemplified in FIG. 4D).
  • the sub regions on the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA and/or the second PAM strand of the IND may or may not be consecutive.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA may comprise 2 sub regions each identical to a sub region of the sequence on the second PAM strand of the IND, wherein the two sub regions of the sequence on the second PAM strand of the IND are separated by a region that does not have identity or substantial identity to the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA.
  • the region of the sequence on the first PAM strand of the IND and the region of the sequence on the second PAM strand of the IND are complementary to each other.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template are at least partially complementary to each other and can anneal to each other to form an OD.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template are substantially complementary or complementary to each other and can anneal to each other to form an OD.
  • the IND is excised, and the OD is incorporated in the double stranded target DNA at the place of the IND excision.
  • the portion in the IND that is not complementary or identical to the first editing template or the second editing template is deleted from the double stranded target DNA.
  • the deletion is at the 3’ end of the IND. In some embodiments, the deletion is at the 5’ end of the IND. In some embodiments, the deletion is in the middle of the IND.
  • the first editing template of the first PEgRNA is at least partially complementary, substantially complementary', at least partially identical, or identical to a sequence of the double stranded target DNA outside the IND.
  • “‘Outside the IND” refers to sequences or positions of the double stranded target DNA that are not in between the two nick sites generated by the first prime editor and the second prime editor.
  • the first editing template comprises a region of identity' to a sequence outside the IND on the second PAM strand (or the first strand) of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first editing template comprises a region of identity to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA adjacent to the second nick site generated by the second prime editor complexed with the second PEgRNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND. In some embodiments, the first editing template comprises a region of identity to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA immediately adjacent to the second nick site generated by the second prime editor complexed with the second PEgRNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND. In some embodiments, the region of identity' is at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, at least 25, at least 30, at least 35, at least 40.
  • the region of identity is about 10 to 15, about 10 to 20, about 10 to 25, about 10 to 30, about 10 to 35 about 10 to 40, about 15 to 20, about 15 to 25, about 15 to 30, about 15 to 35, about 15 to 40, about 20 to 25, about 20 to 30, about 20 to 35, about 20 to 40, about 25 to 30, about 25 to 35, about 25 to 40, about 30 to 35, or about 35 to 40 nucleotides in length.
  • the region of identity is no more than 25, no more than 30, no more than 35, no more than 40, or no more than 45 nucleotides in length.
  • the first editing template comprises a region of identity to the second spacer.
  • the first editing template comprises nucleotides m to (n-3) of the second spacer, wherein n is the length of the second spacer, and m is any integer between 1 and (n-12).ln some embodiments, n is an integer from 16 to 22.
  • the first editing template can contain nucleotides 1-17, 2-17, 3-17, 4-17, 5-17, 6-17, 7-7, or 8-17 of the second spacer.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA adjacent or immediately adjacent to the second nick site generated by the second prime editor complexed with the second PEgRNA.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA immediately adjacent to the second nick site generated by the second prime editor complexed with the second PEgRNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA anneals with the sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA adjacent or immediately adjacent to the second nick site generated by the second prime editor.
  • the IND is excised and deleted from the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the second editing template of the second PEgRNA is at least partially complementary’, substantially complementary, at least partially identical, or identical to a sequence of the double stranded target DNA outside the IND.
  • the second editing template of the second PEgRNA comprises a region of identity’ to a sequence outside the IND on the first PAM strand (or the second strand) of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the second editing template of the second PEgRNA comprises a region of identity’ to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA adjacent to the first nick site generated by the first prime editor complexed with the first PEgRNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the second editing template of the second PEgRNA comprises a region of identity to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA immediately adjacent to the first nick site generated by the first prime editor complexed with the first PEgRNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the region of identity is at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, at least 25, at least 30, at least 35, at least 40, at least 45, at least 50, at least 55, at least 60, at least 65, at least 70, or at least 75 nucleotides in length.
  • the region of identity is about 10 to 15. about 10 to 20.
  • the second editing template comprises a region of identity to the second spacer.
  • the second editing template comprises nucleotides m to (n-3) of the first spacer, wherein n is the length of the first spacer, and m is any integer between 1 and (n-12).In some embodiments, n is an integer from 16 to 22.
  • the second editing template can contain nucleotides 1-17, 2-17, 3-17, 4-17, 5-17, 6-17, 7-7. or 8-17 of the second spacer.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA adjacent or immediately adjacent to the first nick site generated by the first prime editor complexed with the first PEgRNA.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA adjacent or immediately adjacent to the first nick site generated by the first prime editor complexed with the first PEgRNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA anneals with the sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA adjacent or immediately adjacent to the first nick site generated by the first prime editor.
  • the IND is excised and deleted from the double stranded target DNA. e.g., the target gene.
  • the first editing template of the first PEgRNA comprises a region at least partially identical to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA immediately adjacent to the second nick site generated by the second prime editor complexed with the second PEgRNA, wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the second editing template of the second PEgRNA comprises a region at least partially identical to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA immediately adjacent to the first nick site generated by the first prime editor complexed with the first PEgRNA. wherein the sequence is outside the IND.
  • the first editing template and the second editing template further comprise a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to each other.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence on the first strand of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence is immediately adjacent to the second nick site generated by the second prime editor complexed with the second PEgRNA and is outside the IND.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity 7 or substantial complementarity to a sequence on the second strand of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the sequence is immediately adjacent to the first nick site generated by the first prime editor complexed with the first PEgRNA and is outside the IND.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template further comprise a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to each other, and can anneal to each other to form an OD.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template further comprises a region that is not complementary to the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template and does not have complementarity or identity to the double stranded target DNA.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template further comprises a region that is not complementary to the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template and does not have complementarity or identity to the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the target gene.
  • the RD comprises (i) the OD, (ii) the region of the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is not complementary to the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA and does not have complementarity or identity to the double stranded target DNA, and a complementary sequence thereof, and (iii) the region of the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA that is not complementary to the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA and does not have complementarity or identity to the double stranded target DNA, and a complementary sequence thereof.
  • the IND is excised from the double stranded target DNA. e.g., the DMPK gene, and the RD is incorporated into the double stranded target DNA.
  • the IND is excised and deleted from the target gene, and the RD is incorporated at the place of excision of the IND.
  • the IND is excised and deleted from the target gene, and the OD is incorporated at the place of excision of the IND.
  • the RD comprises a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the OD comprises a region of identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the RD does not have sequence identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the RD is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. In some embodiments, the RD has a biological function or encodes a polypeptide having a biological function. In some embodiments, the OD does not have sequence identity to an endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the OD is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene. In some embodiments, the OD has a biological function or encodes a polypeptide having a biological function.
  • the first editing template of the first PEgRNA comprises a region at least partially identical to a sequence of the double stranded target DNA that is outside the IND and is not immediately adjacent to (also referred to as “distal to”) the second nick site on the second PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first editing template of the first PEgRNA comprises a region of identity to a sequence of double stranded target DNA on the second PAM strand that is outside the IND and is at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or more nucleotides upstream of the second nick site.
  • the second editing template of the second PEgRNA comprises a region at least partially identical to a sequence of the double stranded target DNA that is outside the IND and is not immediately adjacent to the first nick site on the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the second editing template of the second PEgRNA comprises a region of identity’ to a sequence of the double stranded target DNA on the first PAM strand that is outside the IND and is at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or more nucleotides upstream of the first nick site.
  • the first newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence of the double stranded target DNA that is outside the IND and is not immediately adjacent (i.e., distal) to the second nick site on the second PAM strand.
  • the first newly synthesized DNA encoded by the first editing template can anneal with the sequence that is outside the IND and is not immediately adjacent to the second nick site on the second PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first newly synthesized DNA encoded by the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity to.
  • the second newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity to a sequence of the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA that is outside the IND and is not immediately adjacent to (also referred to as “distal to”) the first nick site on the first PAM strand.
  • the second newly synthesized DNA encoded by the second editing template can anneal with the sequence that is outside the IND and is not immediately adjacent to the first nick site on the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the second newly synthesized DNA encoded by the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity to, and can anneal with a sequence of the double stranded target DNA that is outside the IND and is at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. 15. 16. 17, 18, 19, 20 or more nucleotides upstream of the first nick site.
  • the IND is excised and deleted from the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the target gene.
  • the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target DNA between the 3’ end of the sequence that is outside the IND and is distal to the second nick site on the second PAM strand and the 3’ end of the sequence of the double stranded target DNA that is outside the IND and is distal to the first nick site on the first PAM strand of the double stranded target DNA is excised and deleted from the double stranded target DNA.
  • the first protospacer is downstream of the second search target sequence.
  • the first editing template comprises a region that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template, and optionally further comprises a region that does not have a complementarity to the second editing template.
  • the second editing template comprises a region that has complementarity or substantial complementarity to the first editing template, and optionally further comprises a region that does not have complementarity to the first editing template.
  • Prime editor refers to the polypeptide or polypeptide components involved in prime editing.
  • a prime editor includes a polypeptide domain having DNA binding activity and a polypeptide domain having DNA polymerase activity.
  • the polypeptide domain having DNA binding activity is a polypeptide domain having programmable DNA binding activity.
  • the prime editor further comprises a polypeptide domain having nuclease activity.
  • the polypeptide domain having DNA binding activity comprises a nuclease domain or nuclease activity.
  • the polypeptide domain having nuclease activity comprises a nickase, or a fully active nuclease.
  • nickase refers to a nuclease capable of cleaving only one strand of a double-stranded DNA target.
  • the prime editor comprises a polypeptide domain that is an inactive nuclease.
  • the polypeptide domain having programmable DNA binding activity comprises a nucleic acid guided DNA binding domain, for example, a CRISPR-Cas protein, for example, a Cas9 nickase, a Cpfl nickase, or another CRISPR-Cas nuclease.
  • the polypeptide domain having DNA polymerase activity comprises a template-dependent DNA polymerase, for example, a DNA-dependent DNA polymerase or an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a reverse transcriptase.
  • the prime editor comprises additional polypeptides or polypeptide domains involved in prime editing, for example, a polypeptide domain having 5’ endonuclease activity, e.g., a 5' endogenous DNA flap endonucleases (e.g. FEN1), for helping to drive the prime editing process towards the edited product formation.
  • the prime editor further comprises an RNA- protein recruitment polypeptide, for example, a MS2 coat protein.
  • a prime editor may be engineered.
  • the polypeptide components of a prime editor do not naturally occur in the same organism or cellular environment.
  • the polypeptide components of a prime editor may be of different origins or from different organisms.
  • a prime editor comprises a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain that are derived from different species.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas polypeptide and a reverse transcriptase polypeptide that are derived from different species.
  • a prime editor may comprise a S. pyogenes Cas9 polypeptide and a Moloney murine leukemia virus (M-MLV) reverse transcriptase polypeptide.
  • M-MLV Moloney murine leukemia virus
  • polypeptide domains of a prime editor may be fused or linked by a peptide linker to form a fusion protein.
  • a prime editor comprises one or more polypeptide domains provided in trans as separate proteins, which are capable of being associated to each other through non-peptide linkages or through aptamers or recruitment sequences.
  • a prime editor may comprise a DNA binding domain and a reverse transcriptase domain associated with each other by an RNA-protein recruitment aptamer, e.g.,a MS2 aptamer, which may be linked to a PEgRNA.
  • Prime editor polypeptide components may be encoded by one or more polynucleotides in whole or in part.
  • a single polynucleotide, construct, or vector encodes the prime editor fusion protein.
  • multiple polynucleotides, constructs, or vectors each encode a polypeptide domain or portion of a domain of a prime editor, or a portion of a prime editor fusion protein.
  • a prime editor fusion protein may comprise an N- terminal portion fused to an intein-N and a C-terminal portion fused to an intein-C, each of which is individually encoded by an AAV vector.
  • prime editor complex is used interchangeably with the term “prime editing complex” and refers to a complex comprising one or more prime editor components (e.g., a polypeptide domain having DNA binding activity and a polypeptide domain having DNA polymerase activity) complexed with a PEgRNA.
  • prime editor components e.g., a polypeptide domain having DNA binding activity and a polypeptide domain having DNA polymerase activity
  • a prime editor comprises a nucleotide polymerase domain, e.g., a DNA polymerase domain.
  • the DNA polymerase domain may be a wild- type DNA polymerase domain, a full-length DNA polymerase protein domain, or may be a functional mutant, a functional variant, or a functional fragment thereof.
  • the polymerase domain is a template dependent polymerase domain.
  • the DNA polymerase may rely on a template polynucleotide strand, e.g., the editing template sequence, for new strand DNA synthesis.
  • the prime editor comprises a DNA-dependent DNA polymerase.
  • a prime editor having a DNA-dependent DNA polymerase can synthesize a new single stranded DNA using a PEgRNA editing template that comprises a DNA sequence as a template.
  • the PEgRNA is a chimeric or hybrid PEgRNA, and comprises an extension arm comprising a DNA strand.
  • an “extension arm” is a polynucleotide portion of a PEgRNA that comprises an editing template and a primer binding site sequence (PBS).
  • PBS primer binding site sequence
  • an extension arm further comprises additional components, for example, a 3’ modifier.
  • the chimeric or hybrid PEgRNA may comprise an RNA portion (including the spacer and the gRNA core) and a DNA portion (the extension arm comprising the editing template that includes a strand of DNA).
  • the DNA polymerases can be wild type polymerases from eukaryotic, prokaryotic, archael, or viral organisms, and/or the polymerases may be modified by genetic engineering, mutagenesis, or directed evolution-based processes.
  • the polymerases can be a T7 DNA polymerase, T5 DNA polymerase, T4 DNA polymerase, Klenow fragment DNA polymerase, DNA polymerase III and the like.
  • the polymerases can be thermostable, and can include Taq, Tne. Tma. Pfu, TH, Tth. Stoffel fragment. VENT® and DEEPVENT® DNA polymerases. KOD, Tgo, JDF3, and mutants, variants and derivatives thereof.
  • the DNA polymerase is a bacteriophage polymerase, for example, a T4, T7, or phi29 DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is an archaeal polymerase, for example, pol I ty pe archaeal polymerase or a pol II type archaeal polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase comprises a thermostable archaeal DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase comprises a eubacterial DNA polymerase, for example, Pol I, Pol II, or Pol III polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a Pol I family DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a E.coli Pol I DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a Pol II family DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a Pyrococcus furiosus (Pfu) Pol II DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA Polymerase is a Pol IV family DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a E.coli Pol IV DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase comprises a eukaryotic DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a Pol-beta DNA polymerase, a Pol-lambda DNA polymerase, a Pol-sigma DNA polymerase, or a Pol-mu DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a Pol-alpha DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a POLA1 DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a POLA2 DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a Pol-delta DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a POLDI DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a POLD2 DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a human POLDI DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a human POLD2 DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a POLD3 DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a POLD4 DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a Pol-epsilon DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a POLE1 DNA polymerase. In some embodiments.
  • the DNA polymerase is a POLE2 DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a POLE3 DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a Pol-eta (POLH) DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a Pol-iota (POLI) DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a Pol-kappa (POLK) DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a Revl DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a human Revl DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a viral DNA-dependent DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a B family DNA polymerases. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a herpes simplex virus (HSV) UL30 DNA polymerase. In some embodiments, the DNA polymerase is a cytomegalovirus (CMV) UL54 DNA polymerase.
  • HSV herpes simplex virus
  • CMV cytomegalovirus
  • the DNA polymerase is an archaeal polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a Family B/pol I type DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a homolog of Pfu from Pyrococcus furiosus.
  • the DNA polymerase is a pol II type DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a homolog of P. furiosus DP 1/DP2 2-subunit polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase lacks 5’ to 3’ nuclease activity. Suitable DNA polymerases (pol I or pol II) can be derived from archaea with optimal growth temperatures that are similar to the desired assay temperatures.
  • the DNA polymerase comprises a thermostable archaeal DNA polymerase.
  • the thermostable DNA polymerase is isolated or derived from Pyrococcus species (furiosus, species GB-D, vioesU, abysii, horikoshii), Thermococcus species (kodakaraensis K0D1, litoralis. species 9 degrees North-7, species JDF-3, gorgonarius), Pyrodictium occultum. and Archaeoglobus fulgidus .
  • Polymerases may also be from eubacterial species.
  • the DNA polymerase is a Pol I family DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is an E. coll Pol I DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a Pol II family DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is a Pyrococcus furiosus (Pfu) Pol II DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA Polymerase is a Pol III family DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA Polymerase is a Pol IV family DNA polymerase.
  • the DNA polymerase is an E.coli Pol IV DNA polymerase.
  • the Pol I DNA polymerase is a DNA polymerase functional variant that lacks or has reduced 5' to 3' exonuclease activity.
  • Suitable thermostable pol I DNA polymerases can be isolated from a variety of thermophilic eubacteria, including Thermus species and Thermotoga maritima such as Thermus aquations (Taq), Thermus thermophilus (Tth) and Thermotoga maritima (Tma UlTma).
  • a prime editor comprises an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase domain, for example, a reverse transcriptase (RT).
  • RT reverse transcriptase
  • a RT or an RT domain may be a wild type RT domain, a full-length RT domain, or may be a functional mutant, a functional variant, or a functional fragment thereof.
  • An RT or an RT domain of a prime editor may comprise a wild-type RT, or may be engineered or evolved to contain specific amino acid substitutions, truncations, or variants.
  • An engineered RT may comprise sequences or amino acid changes different from a naturally occurring RT. In some embodiments, the engineered RT may have improved reverse transcription activity over a naturally occurring RT or RT domain.
  • the engineered RT may have improved features over a naturally occurring RT. For example, improved thermostability’, reverse transcription efficiency, or target fidelity.
  • a prime editor comprising the engineered RT has improved prime editing efficiency over a prime editor having a reference naturally occurring RT.
  • a prime editor comprises a virus RT, for example, a retrovirus RT.
  • virus RT include Moloney murine leukemia vims (M-MLV or MLVRT); human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) RT; bovine leukemia virus (BLV) RT; Rous Sarcoma Virus (RSV) RT; human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) RT, M- MFV RT, Avian Sarcoma-Leukosis Vims (ASLV) RT, Rous Sarcoma Vims (RSV) RT, Avian Myeloblastosis Vims (AMV) RT, Avian Erythroblastosis Vims (AEV) Helper Virus MCAV RT, Avian Myelocytomatosis Virus MC29 Helper Vims MCAV RT, Avian Reticuloendotheliosis Vims (REV-T)
  • M-MLV or MLVRT human
  • the prime editor comprises a wild ty pe M-MLV RT.
  • An exemplary' sequence of a reference M-MLV RT is provided in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • the prime editor comprises a M-MLV RT comprising one or more of amino acid substitutions P51X, S67X, E69X, L139X, T197X. D200X, H204X. F209X, E302X, T306X, F309X, W313X, T330X, L345X, L435X, N454X, D524X, E562X, D583X, H594X, L603X, E607X, or D653X as compared to the reference M-MLV RT as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168, where X is any amino acid other than the wild type amino acid.
  • the prime editor comprises a M-MLV RT comprising one or more of amino acid substitutions P51L, S67K, E69K, L139P, T197A, D200N, H204R, F209N, E302K, E302R, T306K, F309N, W313F, T330P. L345G, L435G, N454K. D524G, E562Q, D583N. H594Q, L603W. E607K. and D653N as compared to the reference M-MLV RT as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • the prime editor comprises a M-MLV RT comprising one or more amino acid substitutions D200N, T330P, L603W, T306K, and W313F as compared to the reference M-MLV RT as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • the prime editor comprises a M-MLV RT comprising amino acid substitutions D200N, T330P, L603W, T306K, and W313F as compared to the reference M-MLV RT as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • a prime editor comprises a M-MLV RT variant having the sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 169.
  • an RT variant may be a functional fragment of a reference RT that has 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, or up to 100, or up to 200, or up to 300, or up to 400, or up to 500 or more amino acid changes compared to a reference RT, e.g., a wild type RT or a reference RT.
  • the RT variant comprises a fragment of a reference RT, e.g., a wild type RT or a reference RT, such that the fragment is about 70% identical, about 80% identical, about 90% identical, about 95% identical, about 96% identical, about 97% identical, about 98% identical, about 99% identical, about 99.5% identical, or about 99.9% identical to the corresponding fragment of the reference RT.
  • a reference RT e.g., a wild type RT or a reference RT
  • the fragment is 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 99.5% of the amino acid length of a corresponding reference RT (M-MLV reverse transcriptase) (e.g., SEQ ID NO: 168).
  • M-MLV reverse transcriptase e.g., SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • the RT functional fragment is at least 100 amino acids in length. In some embodiments, the fragment is at least 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 550, or up to 600 or more amino acids in length.
  • the functional RT variant is truncated at the N-terminus or the C-terminus. or both, by a certain number of amino acids which results in a truncated variant which still retains sufficient DNA polymerase function.
  • the RT truncated variant has a truncation of at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9. at least 10.
  • the reference RT is has the sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • the RT truncated variant has a truncation of at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 17, at least 18, at least 19, at least 20, at least 21, at least 22, at least 23. at least 24. at least 25. at least 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100. 110, 120. 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, or 250 amino acids at the C-terminal end compared to a reference RT.
  • the reference RT is has the sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • the RT truncated variant has a truncation at the N-terminal and the C-terminal end compared to a reference RT.
  • the reference RT is has the sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • the N-terminal truncation and the C-terminal truncation are of the same length.
  • the N-terminal truncation and the C-terminal truncation are of different lengths.
  • the prime editors disclosed herein may include a functional variant of a wild type M-MLV reverse transcriptase.
  • the prime editor comprises a functional variant of a reference M-MLV RT, wherein the functional variant of M-MLV RT is truncated after amino acid position 502 compared to a reference M-MLV RT as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • the functional variant of M-MLV RT further comprises a D200X, T306X, W313X, and/or T330X amino acid substitution compared to a reference M-MLV RT as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168, wherein X is any amino acid other than the original amino acid.
  • the functional variant of M-MLV RT further comprises a D200N, T306K, W313F, and/or T330P amino acid substitution compared to a reference M-MLV RT as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168.
  • X is any amino acid other than the original amino acid.
  • a DNA sequence encoding a prime editor comprising this truncated RT is 522 bp smaller than the DNA encoding the reference M-MLV RT (e.g. the RT as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 168), and therefore makes it potentially useful for applications where delivery of the DNA sequence is challenging due to its size (i.e.. adeno-associated virus and lenti virus delivery).
  • a prime editor comprises a eukaryotic RT, for example, a yeast, drosophila, rodent, or primate RT.
  • the prime editor comprises a Group II intron RT, for example, a. Geobcicillus stearothermophlhis Group II Intron (Gsl- IIC) RT or a Eubacterium rectale group II intron (Eu.re.I2) RT.
  • the prime editor comprises a retron RT.
  • the DNA-binding domain of a prime editor is a programmable DNA binding domain.
  • a programmable DNA binding domain refers to a protein domain that is designed to bind a specific nucleic acid sequence, e.g, a target DNA or a target RNA.
  • the DNA-binding domain is a polynucleotide programmable DNA-binding domain that can associate with a guide polynucleotide (e.g, a PEgRNA) that guides the DNA-binding domain to a specific DNA sequence, e.g. a search target sequence in a target gene.
  • a guide polynucleotide e.g, a PEgRNA
  • the DNA-binding domain comprises a Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) Associated (Cas) protein.
  • CRISPR Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats
  • Cas Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats
  • a Cas protein may comprise any Cas protein described herein or a functional fragment or functional variant thereof.
  • a DNA-binding domain may also comprise a zinc-finger protein domain.
  • a DNA-binding domain comprises a transcription activator-like effector domain (TALE).
  • TALE transcription activator-like effector domain
  • the DNA-binding domain comprises a DNA nuclease.
  • the DNA-binding domain of a prime editor may comprise an RNA-guided DNA endonuclease, e.g, a Cas protein.
  • the DNA-binding domain comprises a zinc finger nuclease (ZFN) or a transcription activator like effector domain nuclease (TALEN), where one or more zinc finger motifs or TALE motifs are associated with one or more nucleases, e.g, a Fok I nuclease domain.
  • ZFN zinc finger nuclease
  • TALEN transcription activator like effector domain nuclease
  • the DNA-binding domain comprise a nuclease activity.
  • the DNA-binding domain of a prime editor comprises an endonuclease domain having single strand DNA cleavage activity.
  • the endonuclease domain may comprise a FokI nuclease domain.
  • the DNA-binding domain of a prime editor comprises a nuclease having full nuclease activity. In some embodiments, the DNA-binding domain of a prime editor comprises a nuclease having modified or reduced nuclease activity as compared to a wild type endonuclease domain. For example, the endonuclease domain may comprise one or more amino acid substitutions as compared to a wild type endonuclease domain. In some embodiments, the DNA-binding domain of a prime editor has nickase activity. In some embodiments, the DNA-binding domain of a prime editor comprises a Cas protein domain that is a nickase.
  • the Cas nickase comprises one or more amino acid substitutions in a nuclease domain that reduces or abolishes its double strand nuclease activity but retains DNA binding activity.
  • the Cas nickase comprises an amino acid substitution in a HNH domain.
  • the Cas nickase comprises an amino acid substitution in a RuvC domain.
  • the DNA-binding domain comprises a CRISPR associated protein (Cas protein) domain.
  • a Cas protein may be a Class 1 or a Class 2 Cas protein.
  • a Cas protein can be a type I, type II. type III, type IV. type V Cas protein, or a type VI Cas protein.
  • Non-limiting examples of Cas proteins include Cas9, Cas 12a (Cpfl), Cas l2e (CasX), Casl2d (CasY), Casl2bl (C2cl), Casl2b2, Casl2c (C2c3), C2c4, C2c8, C2c5, C2cl0, C2c9, Casl4a, Casl4b, Casl4c, Casl4d, Casl4e. Casl4f, Casl4g, Casl4h, Casl4u, Cns2, Cas ⁇ !’. and homologs, functional fragments, or modified versions thereof.
  • a Cas protein can be a chimeric Cas protein that is fused to other proteins or polypeptides.
  • a Cas protein can be a chimera of various Cas proteins, for example, comprising domains of Cas proteins from different organisms.
  • a Cas protein e.g, Cas9
  • the organism is Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes).
  • the organism is Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).
  • the organism is Streptococcus thermophilus (5. thermophilus).
  • the organism is Staphylococcus lugdunensis .
  • a Cas protein e.g, Cas9
  • Cas protein can be a wild type or a modified form of a Cas protein.
  • a Cas protein, e.g., Cas9 can be a nuclease active variant, nuclease inactive variant, a nickase. or a functional variant or functional fragment of a wild type Cas protein.
  • a Cas protein, e.g, Cas9 can comprise an amino acid change such as a deletion, insertion, substitution, fusion, chimera, or any combination thereof relative to a wild-type version of the Cas protein.
  • a Cas protein can be a polypeptide with at least about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%. 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity or sequence similarity to a wild type exemplary Cas protein.
  • a Cas protein may comprise one or more domains.
  • Cas domains include, guide nucleic acid recognition and/or binding domain, nuclease domains (e.g, DNase or RNase domains, RuvC, HNH), DNA binding domain, RNA binding domain, helicase domains, protein-protein interaction domains, and dimerization domains.
  • a Cas protein comprises a guide nucleic acid recognition and/or binding domain that can interact with a guide nucleic acid, and one or more nuclease domains that comprise catalytic activity for nucleic acid cleavage.
  • a Cas protein comprises one or more nuclease domains.
  • a Cas protein can comprise an amino acid sequence having at least about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to a nuclease domain (e.g, RuvC domain, HNH domain) of a wild-type Cas protein.
  • a Cas protein comprises a single nuclease domain.
  • a Cpfl may comprise a RuvC domain but lacks HNH domain.
  • a Cas protein comprises two nuclease domains, e.g, a Cas9 protein can comprise an HNH nuclease domain and a RuvC nuclease domain.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas protein, e.g., Cas9, wherein all nuclease domains of the Cas protein are active.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas protein having one or more inactive nuclease domains.
  • One or a plurality of the nuclease domains (e.g, RuvC, HNH) of a Cas protein can be deleted or mutated so that they are no longer functional or comprise reduced nuclease activity.
  • a Cas protein e.g., Cas9
  • a Cas protein comprising mutations in a nuclease domain has reduced (e.g, nickase) or abolished nuclease activity while maintaining its ability to target a nucleic acid locus at a search target sequence when complexed with a guide nucleic acid, e.g, a PEgRNA.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas nickase that can bind to the target gene in a sequence-specific manner and generate a single-strand break at a protospacer within double-stranded DNA in the target gene, but not a double-strand break.
  • the Cas nickase can cleave the edit strand (z.e., the PAM strand) or the non-edit strand of the target gene, but may not cleave both.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas nickase comprising two nuclease domains (e.g, Cas9), with one of the two nuclease domains modified to lack catalytic activity or deleted.
  • the Cas nickase of a prime editor comprises a nuclease inactive RuvC domain and a nuclease active HNH domain. In some embodiments, the Cas nickase of a prime editor comprises a nuclease inactive HNH domain and a nuclease active RuvC domain. In some embodiments, a prime editor comprises a Cas9 nickase having an amino acid substitution in the RuvC domain. In some embodiments, the Cas9 nickase comprises a D10X amino acid substitution compared to a wild type S. pyogenes Cas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170. wherein X is any amino acid other than D.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 nickase having an amino acid substitution in the HNH domain.
  • the Cas9 nickase comprises a H840X amino acid substitution compared to a wild type S. pyogenes Cas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170. wherein X is any amino acid other than H.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas protein that can bind to the target gene in a sequence-specific manner but lacks or has abolished nuclease activity and may not cleave either strand of a double stranded DNA in a target gene.
  • Abolished activity or lacking activity can refer to an enzymatic activity less than 1%, less than 2%, less than 3%, less than 4%. less than 5%. less than 6%, less than 7%, less than 8%, less than 9%, or less than 10% activity compared to a wild-type exemplary activity (e.g, wild-type Cas9 nuclease activity).
  • a Cas protein of a prime editor completely lacks nuclease activity.
  • a nuclease, e.g., Cas9, that lacks nuclease activity may be referred to as nuclease inactive or ‘“nuclease dead” (abbreviated by “d”).
  • a nuclease dead Cas protein e.g, dCas, dCas9 can bind to a target polynucleotide but may not cleave the target polynucleotide.
  • a dead Cas protein is a dead Cas9 protein.
  • a prime editor comprises a nuclease dead Cas protein wherein all of the nuclease domains (e.g, both RuvC and HNH nuclease domains in a Cas9 protein; RuvC nuclease domain in a CpH protein) are mutated to lack catalytic activity, or are deleted.
  • nuclease domains e.g, both RuvC and HNH nuclease domains in a Cas9 protein; RuvC nuclease domain in a CpH protein
  • a Cas protein can be modified.
  • a Cas protein e g, Cas9, can be modified to increase or decrease nucleic acid binding affinity, nucleic acid binding specificity, and/or enzymatic activity.
  • Cas proteins can also be modified to change any other activity or property of the protein, such as stability.
  • one or more nuclease domains of the Cas protein can be modified, deleted, or inactivated, or a Cas protein can be truncated to remove domains that are not essential for the function of the protein or to optimize (e.g, enhance or reduce) the activity of the Cas protein.
  • a Cas protein can be a fusion protein.
  • a Cas protein can be fused to a cleavage domain, an epigenetic modification domain, a transcriptional regulation domain, or a polymerase domain.
  • a Cas protein can also be fused to a heterologous polypeptide providing increased or decreased stability. The fused domain or heterologous polypeptide can be located at the N-terminus, the C-terminus, or internally within the Cas protein.
  • the Cas protein of a prime editor is a Class 2 Cas protein.
  • the Cas protein is a type II Cas protein.
  • the Cas protein is a Cas9 protein, a modified version of a Cas9 protein, a Cas9 protein homolog, mutant, variant, or a functional fragment thereof.
  • a Cas9, Cas9 protein, Cas9 polypeptide or a Cas9 nuclease refers to an RNA guided nuclease comprising one or more Cas9 nuclease domains and a Cas9 gRNA binding domain having the ability to bind a guide polynucleotide, e.g, a PEgRNA.
  • a Cas9 protein may refer to a wild type Cas9 protein from any organism or a homolog, ortholog, or paralog from any organisms; any functional mutants or functional variants thereof; or any functional fragments or domains thereof.
  • a prime editor comprises a full-length Cas9 protein.
  • the Cas9 protein can generally comprises at least about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 100% sequence identity to a wild type reference Cas9 protein (e.g., Cas9 from S. pyogenes).
  • the Cas9 comprises an amino acid change such as a deletion, insertion, substitution, fusion, chimera, or any combination thereof as compared to a wild ty pe reference Cas9 protein.
  • a Cas9 protein may comprise a Cas9 protein from Streptococcus pyogenes (Sp), Staphylococcus aureus (Sa), Streptococcus canis (Sc), Streptococcus thermophilus (St), Staphylococcus lugdunensis (Siu), Neisseria meningitidis (Nm), Campylobacter jejuni (Cj), Francisella novicida (Fn), or Treponema denticola (Td), or any Cas9 homolog or ortholog from an organism known in the art.
  • a Cas9 polypeptide is a SpCas9 polypeptide.
  • a Cas9 polypeptide is a SaCas9 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a ScCas9 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a StCas9 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a SluCas9 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a NmCas9 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a CjCas9 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a FnCas9 polypeptide.
  • a Cas9 polypeptide is a TdCas9 polypeptide. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a chimera comprising domains from two or more of the organisms described herein or those known in the art. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a Cas9 polypeptide from Streptococcus macacae. In some embodiments, a Cas9 polypeptide is a Cas9 polypeptide generated by replacing a PAM interaction domain of a SpCas9 with that of a Streptococcus macacae Cas9 (Spy-mac Cas9).
  • a Cas9 is a chimeric Cas9, e.g., modified Cas9; e.g., synthetic RNA-guided nucleases (sRGNs), e.g., modified by DNA family shuffling, e.g., sRGN3.1, sRGN3.3.
  • modified Cas9 e.g., synthetic RNA-guided nucleases (sRGNs), e.g., modified by DNA family shuffling, e.g., sRGN3.1, sRGN3.3.
  • sRGNs synthetic RNA-guided nucleases
  • the DNA family shuffling comprises, fragmentation and reassembly of parental Cas9 genes, e.g., one or more of Cas9s from Staphylococcus hyicus (Shy), Staphylococcus lugdunensis (Siu), Staphylococcus microti (Smi), and Staphylococcus pasteuri (Spa).
  • parental Cas9 genes e.g., one or more of Cas9s from Staphylococcus hyicus (Shy), Staphylococcus lugdunensis (Siu), Staphylococcus microti (Smi), and Staphylococcus pasteuri (Spa).
  • SpCas9 Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 amino acid sequence is provided in SEQ ID NO: 170.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 protein from Staphylococcus lugdunensis (Siu Cas9).
  • Siu Cas9 Staphylococcus lugdunensis
  • An exemplary amino acid sequence of a wild type Siu Cas9 is provided in SEQ ID NO: 174.
  • a Cas9 protein comprises a variant Cas9 protein containing one or more amino acid substitutions.
  • a wild type Cas9 protein comprises a RuvC domain and an HNH domain.
  • a prime editor comprises a nuclease active Cas9 protein that may cleave both strands of a double stranded target DNA sequence.
  • the nuclease active Cas9 protein comprises a functional RuvC domain and a functional HNH domain.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 nickase that can bind to a guide polynucleotide and recognize a target DNA, but can cleave only one strand of a double stranded target DNA.
  • the Cas9 nickase comprises only one functional RuvC domain or one functional HNH domain.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 that has a non-functional HNH domain and a functional RuvC domain.
  • the prime editor can cleave the edit strand (z.e., the PAM strand), but not the non-edit strand of a double stranded target DNA sequence.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 having a non-functional RuvC domain that can cleave the target strand (z.e., the non- PAM strand), but not the edit strand of a double stranded target DNA sequence.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 that has neither a functional RuvC domain nor a functional HNH domain, which may not cleave any strand of a double stranded target DNA sequence.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 having a mutation in the RuvC domain that reduces or abolishes the nuclease activity of the RuvC domain.
  • the Cas9 comprise a mutation at amino acid DIO as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or a corresponding mutation thereof.
  • the Cas9 comprise a D10A mutation as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or a corresponding mutation thereof.
  • the Cas9 polypeptide comprise a mutation at amino acid DIO, G12, and/or G17 as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or a corresponding mutation thereof. In some embodiments, the Cas9 polypeptide comprise a D10A mutation, a G12A mutation, and/or a G17A mutation as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or a corresponding mutation thereof.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 polypeptide having a mutation in the HNH domain that reduces or abolishes the nuclease activity of the HNH domain.
  • the Cas9 polypeptide comprise a mutation at amino acid H840 as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or a corresponding mutation thereof.
  • the Cas9 polypeptide comprise a H840A mutation as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or a corresponding mutation thereof.
  • the Cas9 polypeptide comprises a mutation at amino acid E762, D839, H840, N854, N856, N863, H982, H983, A984, D986, and/or a A987 as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or a corresponding mutation thereof.
  • the Cas9 polypeptide comprise a E762A, D839A, H840A, N854A, N856A, N863A, H982A, H983A, A984A, and/or a D986A mutation as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or a corresponding mutation thereof.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 having one or more amino acid substitutions in both the HNH domain and the RuvC domain that reduce or abolish the nuclease activity of both the HNH domain and the RuvC domain.
  • the prime editor comprises a nuclease inactive Cas9, or a nuclease dead Cas9 (dCas9).
  • the dCas9 comprises a H840X substitution and a D10X mutation compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170or corresponding mutations thereof, wherein X is any amino acid other than H for the H840X substitution and any amino acid other than D for the DI OX substitution.
  • the dead Cas9 comprises a H840A and a D10A mutation as compared to a wild type SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170, or corresponding mutations thereof.
  • the N-terminal methionine is removed from a Cas9 nickase, or from any Cas9 variant, ortholog, or equivalent disclosed or contemplated herein.
  • a Cas9 nickase or from any Cas9 variant, ortholog, or equivalent disclosed or contemplated herein.
  • methionine-minus Cas9 nickases, or a vanant thereof having an amino acid sequence that has at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 99% sequence identity thereto.
  • a prime editor comprises a Streptococcus pyogenes Cas9 (SpCas9) having a nuclease inactivating mutation in the HNH domain (a SpCas9 nickase).
  • the SpCas9 nickase lacks the N-tenninus methionine relative to a corresponding reference SpCas9 (e.g., wild type SpCas9).
  • a prime editor comprises a SpCas9 nickase having the sequences as provide in SEQ ID NO: 171 (SpCas9 H840A nickase including the N-terminal methionine).
  • a prime editor comprises a SpCas9 nickase having the sequences as provide in SEQ ID NO: 172 (SpCas9 H840A nickase lacking the N- tenninal methionine).
  • the SpCas9 nickase further comprises a R221K and/or a N394K amino acid substitution compared to a reference SpCas9 sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170.
  • the SpCas9 nickase comprises a sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 173.
  • a prime editor comprises a Staphylococcus lugdunensis (SluCas9) having a nuclease inactivating mutation in the HNH domain (a ShiCas9 nickase).
  • the SluCas9 nickase lacks the N-terminus methionine relative to a corresponding reference SluCas9 (e.g., wild type SluCas9).
  • a prime editor comprises a SluCas9 nickase having the sequences as provide in SEQ ID NO: 175 (SluCas9 H840A nickase including the N-terminal methionine).
  • a prime editor comprises a SluCas9 nickase having the sequences as provide in SEQ ID NO: 176 (SluCas9 H840A nickase lacking the N-terminal methionine).
  • the Cas9 proteins used herein may also include other Cas9 variants having at least about 70% identity, at least about 80% identity, at least about 90% identity, at least about 95% identity, at least about 96% identity, at least about 97% identity, at least about 98% identity, at least about 99% identity, at least about 99.5% identity', or at least about 99.9% identity 7 to any reference Cas9 protein, including any wild ty pe Cas9, or mutant Cas9 (e.g., a dead Cas9 or Cas9 nickase), or fragment Cas9, or circular permutant Cas9, or other variant of Cas9 disclosed herein or known in the art.
  • any reference Cas9 protein including any wild ty pe Cas9, or mutant Cas9 (e.g., a dead Cas9 or Cas9 nickase), or fragment Cas9, or circular permutant Cas9, or other variant of Cas9 disclosed herein or known in the art.
  • a Cas9 variant may have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 7, 8, 9. 10. 11. 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 or more amino acid changes compared to a reference Cas9, e.g., a wild type Cas9.
  • the Cas9 variant comprises a fragment of a reference Cas9 (e.g.
  • a gRNA binding domain or a DNA-cleavage domain such that the fragment is at least about 70% identical, at least about 80% identical, at least about 90% identical, at least about 95% identical, at least about 96% identical, at least about 97% identical, at least about 98% identical, at least about 99% identical, at least about 99.5% identical, or at least about 99.9% identical to the corresponding fragment of the reference Cas9, e.g., a wild type Cas9.
  • the fragment is at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95% identical, at least 96%, at least 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, or at least 99.5% of the amino acid length of a corresponding wild type Cas9.
  • a Cas9 fragment is a functional fragment that retains one or more Cas9 activities.
  • the Cas9 fragment is at least 100 amino acids in length.
  • the fragment is at least 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500, 550. 600, 650, 700, 750, 800, 850, 900, 950, 1000, 1050, 1100, 1150, 1200, 1250. or at least 1300 amino acids in length.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas protein, e.g, Cas9, containing modifications that allow altered PAM recognition.
  • a “protospacer adjacent motif (PAM)’', PAM sequence, or PAM-like motif may be used to refer to a short DNA sequence immediately following the protospacer on the PAM strand of the target gene.
  • the PAM is recognized by the Cas nuclease in the prime editor during prime editing.
  • the PAM is required for target binding of the Cas protein.
  • the specific PAM sequence required for Cas protein recognition may depend on the specific type of the Cas protein.
  • a PAM can be 1, 2, 3, 4. 5, 6, 7. 8.
  • a PAM is between 2-6 nucleotides in length.
  • the PAM can be a 5’ PAM (z.e., located upstream of the 5 ’ end of the protospacer).
  • the PAM can be a 3 ’ PAM (z.e., located downstream of the 5’ end of the protospacerj.
  • the Cas protein of a prime editor recognizes a canonical PAM.
  • a SpCas9 recognizes 5’-NGG-3’ PAM.
  • the Cas protein of a prime editor has altered or non-canonical PAM specificities.
  • the Cas protein comprises one or more of the amino acid substitutions as indicated compared to a wild type Cas protein sequence, for example, the SpCas9 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170.
  • the PAM motifs as shown in Table 12 below are in the order of 5’ to 3’.
  • the nucleotides listed in Table 12 are represented by the base codes as provided in the Elandbook on Industrial Property Information and Documentation, World Intellectual Property 7 Organization (WIPO) Standard ST.26, Version 1.4.
  • WIPO World Intellectual Property 7 Organization
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 polypeptide comprising one or more mutations selected from the group consisting of: A61R, LI 11R. DI 135V. R221K, A262T, R324L, N394K, S409I, S409I, E427G, E480K, M495V, N497A, Y515N, K526E, F539S, E543D, R654L, R661A, R661L, R691A, N692A, M694A, M694I, Q695A, H698A, R753G, M763I, K848A, K890N, Q926A, K1003A, R1060A, Lil HR, R1114G, D1135E, D1135L, D1135N, S1136W, V1139A, D1180G, G1218K, G1218R, G1218S, E
  • E1253K N1317R. A1320V. P1321S, A1322R, I1322V, D1332G, R1332N, A1332R, R1333K, R1333P, R1335L, R1335Q, R1335V, T1337N, T1337R, S1338T, H1349R, and any combinations thereof as compared to a wild type SpCas9 polypeptide as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170.
  • a prime editor comprises a SaCas9 polypeptide.
  • the SaCas9 polypeptide comprises one or more of mutations E782K, N968K, and R1015H as compared to a wild type SaCas9.
  • a prime editor comprises a FnCas9 polypeptide, for example, a wild type FnCas9 polypeptide or a FnCas9 polypeptide comprising one or more of mutations E1369R, E1449H, or R1556A as compared to the wild type FnCas9.
  • a prime editor comprises a Sc Cas9, for example, a wild type ScCas9 or a ScCas9 polypeptide comprises one or more of mutations I367K, G368D, I369K, H371L, T375S, T376G, and T1227K as compared to the wild type ScCas9.
  • a prime editor comprises a Stl Cas9 polypeptide, a St3 Cas9 polypeptide, or a Siu Cas9 polypeptide.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas polypeptide that comprises a circular permutant Cas variant.
  • a Cas9 polypeptide of a prime editor may be engineered such that the N-terminus and the C-terminus of a Cas9 protein (e.g, a wild type Cas9 protein, or a Cas9 nickase) are topically rearranged to retain the ability' to bind DNA when complexed with a guide RNA (gRNA).
  • gRNA guide RNA
  • An exemplary circular permutant configuration may be N-termimis-[original C-terminus] -[original N-terminus] -C-terminus.
  • Any of the Cas9 proteins described herein, including any variant, ortholog, or naturally occurring Cas9 or equivalent thereof, may be reconfigured as a circular permutant variant.
  • the circular permutants of a Cas protein may- have the following structure: N-terminus-[original C-terminus] - [optional linker] - [original N-terminus]-C-terminus.
  • a circular permutant Cas9 comprises any one of the following structures (amino acid positions as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170.
  • a circular permutant Cas9 comprises any one of the following structures (amino acid positions as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170): [329] N-terminus-[ 102- 1368] -[optional linker]-[l-101]-C-terminus;
  • a circular permutant Cas9 comprises any one of the following structures (amino acid positions as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170):
  • the circular permutant can be formed by linking a C-terminal fragment of a Cas9 to an N-terminal fragment of a Cas9, either directly or by using a linker, such as an amino acid linker.
  • the C-terminal fragment may correspond to the C-terminal 95% or more of the amino acids of a Cas9 (e.g., amino acids about 1300-1368 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof), or the C-terminal 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5% or more of a Cas9.
  • the N-terminal portion may correspond to the N-terminal 95% or more of the amino acids of a Cas9 (e.g., amino acids about 1-1300 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof), or the N-terminal 90%, 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, or 5% or more of a Cas9 (e.g., as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof).
  • a Cas9 e.g., amino acids about 1-1300 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof
  • a Cas9 e.g., amino acids about 1-1300 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof
  • the circular permutant can be formed by linking a C- terminal fragment of a Cas9 to an N-terminal fragment of a Cas9, either directly or by using a linker, such as an amino acid linker.
  • the C-terminal fragment that is rearranged to the N-terminus includes or corresponds to the C-terminal 30% or less of the amino acids of a Cas9 (e.g., amino acids 1012-1368 as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof).
  • the C-terminal fragment that is rearranged to the N-terminus includes or corresponds to the C-terminal 30%, 29%, 28%, 27%, 26%, 25%, 24%, 23%, 22%, 21%, 20%, 19%, 18%, 17%, 16%, 15%, 14%, 13%, 12%, 11%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, or 1% of the amino acids of a Cas9 (e.g., as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof).
  • a Cas9 e.g., as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof.
  • the C-terminal fragment that is rearranged to the N-terminus includes or corresponds to the C-terminal 410 residues or less of a Cas9 (e.g., as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof).
  • the C-terminal portion that is rearranged to the N-terminus includes or corresponds to the C-terminal 410, 400, 390, 380, 370, 360, 350, 340, 330, 320, 310, 300, 290, 280, 270, 260, 250, 240, 230, 220, 210, 200, 190, 180, 170, 160, 150, 140, 130, 120, 110, 100, 90, 80, 70, 60, 50, 40, 30, 20, or 10 residues of a Cas9 (e.g., as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof).
  • a Cas9 e.g., as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof.
  • the C-terminal portion that is rearranged to the N- terminus includes or corresponds to the C-terminal 357, 341, 328, 120, or 69 residues of a Cas9 (e.g., as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof).
  • circular permutant Cas9 variants may be a topological rearrangement of a Cas9 primary structure based on the following method, which is based on S. pyogenes Cas9 of SEQ ID NO: 170: (a) selecting a circular permutant (CP) site corresponding to an internal amino acid residue of the Cas9 primary' structure, which dissects the original protein into two halves: an N-terminal region and a C-terminal region; (b) modifying the Cas9 protein sequence (e.g., by genetic engineering techniques) by moving the original C-terminal region (comprising the CP site amino acid) to precede the original N- terminal region, thereby forming a new N-terminus of the Cas9 protein that now begins with the CP site amino acid residue.
  • CP circular permutant
  • the CP site can be located in any domain of the Cas9 protein, including, for example, the helical -II domain, the RuvCIII domain, or the CTD domain.
  • the CP site may be located (as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 170 or corresponding amino acid positions thereof) at original amino acid residue 181, 199, 230, 270, 310, 1010, 1016, 1023, 1029, 1041, 1247, 1249, or 1282.
  • original amino acid 181, 199. 230, 270. 310, 1010. 1016. 1023, 1029, 1041, 1247. 1249, or 1282 would become the new N-terminal amino acid.
  • Nomenclature of these CP-Cas9 proteins may be referred to as Cas9-CP 181 , Cas9-CP 199 , Cas9-CP 230 , Cas9-CP 270 , Cas9-CP 310 , Cas9-CP 1010 , Cas9-CP 1016 , Cas9-CP 1023 , Cas9-CP 1029 , Cas9-CP 1041 .
  • Cas9- CP 1249 , and Cas9-CP 1282 respectively.
  • This description is not meant to be limited to making CP variants from SEQ ID NO: 170, but may be implemented to make CP variants in any Cas9 sequence, either at CP sites that correspond to these positions, or at other CP sites entirely. This description is not meant to limit the specific CP sites in any way. Virtually any CP site may be used to form a CP-Cas9 variant.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 functional variant that is of smaller molecular weight than a wild type SpCas9 protein.
  • a smaller- sized Cas9 functional variant may facilitate delivery to cells, e g., by an expression vector, nanoparticle, or other means of delivery.
  • a smaller-sized Cas9 functional variant is a Class 2 Type II Cas protein.
  • a smaller-sized Cas9 functional variant is a Class 2 Type V Cas protein.
  • a smaller- sized Cas9 functional variant is a Class 2 Type VI Cas protein.
  • a prime editor comprises a SpCas9 that is 1368 amino acids in length and has a predicted molecular weight of 158 kilodaltons.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas9 functional variant or functional fragment that is less than 1300 amino acids, less than 1290 amino acids, than less than 1280 amino acids, less than 1270 amino acids, less than 1260 amino acid, less than 1250 amino acids, less than 1240 amino acids, less than 1230 amino acids, less than 1220 amino acids, less than 1210 amino acids, less than 1200 amino acids, less than 1 190 amino acids, less than 1180 amino acids, less than 1170 amino acids, less than 1160 amino acids, less than 1150 amino acids, less than 1140 amino acids, less than 1130 amino acids, less than 1120 amino acids, less than 1110 amino acids, less than 1100 amino acids, less than 1050 amino acids, less than 1000 amino acids, less than 950 amino acids, less than 900 amino acids, less than 850 amino acids, less
  • the Cas protein may include any CRISPR associated protein, including but not limited to, Casl2a, Casl2bl, Casl, CaslB, Cas2, Cas3, Cas4, Cas5, Cas6, Cas7, Cas8, Cas9 (also known as Csnl and Csxl2), CaslO, Csyl, Csy2, Csy3, Csel, Cse2, Cscl, Csc2, Csa5. Csn2, Csm2. Csm3, Csm4, Csm5. Csm6, Cmrl, Cmr3, Cmr4, Cmr5.
  • a nickase mutation e.g., a mutation corresponding to the D10A mutation of the wild type Cas9 polypeptide of SEQ ID NO: 170.
  • the polypeptide domain having DNA binding activity can be any of the following proteins: a Cas9, a Casl2a (Cpfl), a Cas!2e (CasX), a Cas!2d (CasY), a Casl2bl (C2cl), a Casl3a (C2c2), a Casl2c (C2c3), a GeoCas9. a CjCas9, a Casl2g, a Casl2h. a Casl2i, a Casl3b, a Casl3c.
  • a Casl3d a Casl4, a Csn2, an xCas9, an SpCas9-NG, a circularly permuted Cas9, or an Argonaute (Ago) domain, or a functional variant or fragment thereof.
  • a prime editor as described herein may comprise a Cas 12a (Cpfl) polypeptide or functional variants thereof.
  • the Casl2a polypeptide comprises a mutation that reduces or abolishes the endonuclease domain of the Casl2a polypeptide.
  • the Casl2a polypeptide is a Cas 12a nickase.
  • the Cas protein comprises an amino acid sequence that comprises at least about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to a naturally occurring Cas 12a polypeptide.
  • a prime editor comprises a Cas protein that is a Cas 12b (C2cl) or a Cas 12c (C2c3) polypeptide.
  • the Cas protein comprises an amino acid sequence that comprises at least about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity to a naturally occurring Casl2b (C2cl) or Casl2c (C2c3) protein.
  • the Cas protein is a Casl2b nickase or a Casl2c nickase.
  • the Cas protein is a Casl2e, a Casl2d, a Casl3, Casl4a, Casl4b, Casl4c, Casl4d, Casl4e, Casl4f, Casl4g, Casl4h, Casl4u, or a CasO polypeptide.
  • the Cas protein comprises an amino acid sequence that comprises at least about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% sequence identity 7 to a naturally-occurring Casl2e, Casl2d, Casl3, Casl4a, Casl4b, Casl4c, Casl4d, Casl4e, Casl4f, Casl4g, Casl4h, Casl4u, or Cas ⁇ D protein.
  • the Cas protein is a Casl2e, Cas 12d, Cas 13. or Cas ⁇ D nickase.
  • a prime editor further comprises additional polypeptide components, for example, a flap endonuclease (FEN. e.g, FEN 1).
  • FEN flap endonuclease
  • the flap endonuclease excises the 5’ single stranded DNA of the edit strand of the target gene and assists incorporation of the intended nucleotide edit into the target gene.
  • the FEN is linked or fused to another component.
  • the FEN is provided in trans, for example, as a separate polypeptide or polynucleotide encoding the FEN.
  • a prime editor or prime editing composition comprises a flap nuclease.
  • the flap nuclease is a FEN1, or any FEN1 functional variant, functional mutant, or functional fragment thereof.
  • the flap nuclease is a TREX2, EXO1, or any other flap nuclease known in the art, or any functional variant, functional mutant, or functional fragment thereof.
  • the flap nuclease has an amino acid sequence that is at least about 70% identical, at least about 80% identical, at least about 90% identical, at least about 95% identical, at least about 96% identical, at least about 97% identical, at least about 98% identical, at least about 99% identical, at least about 99.5% identical, or at least about 99.9% identical to any of the flap nucleases described herein or known in the art.
  • a prime editor further comprises one or more nuclear localization sequence (NLS).
  • the NLS helps promote translocation of a protein into the cell nucleus.
  • a prime editor comprises a fusion protein, e.g, a fusion protein comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase, that comprises one or more NLSs.
  • one or more polypeptides of the prime editor are fused to or linked to one or more NLSs.
  • the prime editor comprises a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain that are provided in trans, wherein the DNA binding domain and/or the DNA polymerase domain is fused or linked to one or more NLSs.
  • a prime editor or prime editing composition comprises at least one NLS. In some embodiments, a prime editor or prime editing composition comprises at least two NLSs. In embodiments with at least two NLSs, the NLSs can be the same NLS, or they can be different NLSs.
  • a prime editor may further comprise at least one nuclear localization sequence (NLS).
  • NLS nuclear localization sequence
  • a prime editor may further comprise one NLS.
  • a prime editor may further comprise two NLSs.
  • a prime editor may further comprise three NLSs.
  • a primer editor may further comprise more than 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 NLSs.
  • the NLSs may be expressed as part of a prime editor or prime editing composition.
  • a NLS can be positioned almost anywhere in a protein's amino acid sequence, and generally comprises a short sequence of three or more or four or more amino acids.
  • the location of the NLS fusion can be at the N-terminus. the C-terminus, or positioned anywhere within a sequence of a prime editor or a component thereof (e.g.
  • a prime editor is a fusion protein that comprises an NLS at the N terminus.
  • a prime editor is a fusion protein that comprises an NLS at the C terminus.
  • a prime editor is a fusion protein that comprises at least one NLS at both the N terminus and the C terminus.
  • the prime editor is a fusion protein that comprises two NLSs at the N terminus and/or the C terminus.
  • the NLSs may be any naturally occurring NLS, or any non-naturally occurring NLS (e.g, an NLS with one or more mutations relative to a wild-tj pe NLS).
  • the one or more NLSs of a prime editor comprise bipartite NLSs.
  • a nuclear localization signal (NLS) is predominantly basic.
  • the one or more NLSs of a prime editor are rich in lysine and arginine residues.
  • the one or more NLSs of a prime editor comprise proline residues.
  • a NLS is a monopartite NLS.
  • a NLS is a SV40 large T antigen NLS.
  • a NLS is a bipartite NLS.
  • a bipartite NLS comprises two basic domains separated by a linker comprising a variable number of amino acids.
  • a NLS is a bipartite NLS.
  • a bipartite NLS consists of two basic domains separated by a linker comprising a variable number of amino acids.
  • a NLS is a noncanonical sequences such as M9 of the hnRNP Al protein, the influenza virus nucleoprotein NLS, or the yeast Gal4 protein NLS.
  • NLS sequences are provided in Table 15 below.
  • a prime editor described herein may comprise additional functional domains, for example, one or more domains that modify the folding, solubility, or charge of the prime editor.
  • the prime editor may comprise a solubility-enhancement (SET) domain.
  • SET solubility-enhancement
  • a split intein comprises two halves of an intein protein, which may be referred to as a N-terminal half of an intein, or intein-N, and a C-terminal half of an intein, or intein-C, respectively.
  • the intein-N and the intein-C may each be fused to a protein domain (the N-terminal and the C-terminal exteins).
  • the exteins can be any protein or polypeptides, for example, any prime editor polypeptide component.
  • the intein-N and intein-C of a split intein can associate non-covalently to form an active intein and catalyze a trans splicing reaction.
  • the trans splicing reaction excises the two intein sequences and links the two extein sequences with a peptide bond.
  • the intein-N and the intein-C are spliced out, and a protein domain linked to the intein-N is fused to a protein domain linked to the intein-C essentially in same way as a contiguous intein does.
  • a split-intein is derived from a eukaryotic intein, a bacterial intein, or an archaeal intein.
  • the split intein so-derived will possess only the amino acid sequences essential for catalyzing trans-splicing reactions.
  • an intein-N or an intein-C further comprise one or more amino acid substitutions as compared to a wild type intein-N or wild type intein-C, for example, amino acid substitutions that enhances the trans-splicing activity of the split intein.
  • the intein-C comprises 4 to 7 contiguous amino acid residues, wherein at least 4 amino acids of which are from the last p-strand of the intein from which it was derived.
  • the split intein is derived from a Ssp DnaE intein, e.g., Synechocytis sp. PCC6803, or any intein or split intein known in the art, or any functional variants or fragments thereof.
  • a prime editor comprises one or more epitope tags.
  • epitope tags include histidine (His) tags, V5 tags, FLAG tags, influenza hemagglutinin (HA) tags, Myc tags, VSV-G tags, thioredoxin (Trx) tags, biotin carboxylase carrier protein (BCCP) tags, myc-tags, calmodulin-tags, polyhistidine tags, also referred to as histidine tags or His-tags, maltose binding protein (MBP)-tags, nus-tags, glutathione-S-transferase (GST)-tags.
  • His histidine
  • V5 tags includes histidine (His) tags, V5 tags, FLAG tags, influenza hemagglutinin (HA) tags, Myc tags, VSV-G tags, thioredoxin (Trx) tags, biotin carboxylase carrier protein (BCCP) tags, myc-tags, calmodulin-tags, polyhistidine tags,
  • the fusion protein comprises one or more His tags.
  • a prime editor comprises one or more polypeptide domains encoded by one or more reporter genes.
  • reporter genes include, but are not limited to, glutathione-S-transferase (GST), horseradish peroxidase (HRP), chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT), beta-galactosidase, beta-glucuronidase, luciferase, green fluorescent protein (GFP), HcRed, DsRed, cyan fluorescent protein (CFP), yellow fluorescent protein (YFP), and autofluorescent proteins including blue fluorescent protein (BFP).
  • a prime editor comprises one or more polypeptide domains that binds DNA molecules or binds other cellular molecules.
  • binding proteins or domains include, but are not limited to, maltose binding protein (MBP), S-tag, Lex A DNA binding domain (DBD) fusions, GAL4 DNA binding domain fusions, and herpes simplex virus (HSV) BP16 protein fusions.
  • Polypeptides comprising components of a prime editor may be fused via peptide linkers, or may be provided in trans relative to each other.
  • a reverse transcriptase may be expressed, delivered, or otherwise provided as an individual component rather than as a part of a fusion protein with the DNA binding domain.
  • components of the prime editor may be associated through non-peptide linkages or co- localization functions.
  • a prime editor further comprises additional components capable of interacting with, associating with, or capable of recruiting other components of the prime editor or the prime editing system.
  • a prime editor may comprise an RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide that can associate with an RNA- protein recruitment RNA aptamer.
  • an RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide can recruit, or be recruited by, a specific RNA sequence.
  • RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide and RNA aptamer pairs include a MS2 coat protein and a MS2 RNA hairpin, a PCP polypeptide and a PP7 RNA hairpin, a Com polypeptide and a Com RNA hairpin, a Ku protein and a telomerase Ku binding RNA motif, and a Sm7 protein and a telomerase Sm7 binding RNA motif.
  • the prime editor comprises a DNA binding domain fused or linked to an RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide.
  • the prime editor comprises a DNA polymerase domain fused or linked to an RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide.
  • the DNA binding domain and the DNA polymerase domain fused to the RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide, or the DNA binding domain fused to the RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide and the DNA polymerase domain are co-localized by the corresponding RNA-protein recruitment RNA aptamer of the RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide.
  • the corresponding RNA-protein recruitment RNA aptamer is fused or linked to a portion of the PEgRNA.
  • an MS2 coat protein may be fused or linked to the DNA polymerase and a MS2 hairpin installed on the PEgRNA for co-localization of the DNA polymerase and the RNA-guided DNA binding domain (e.g., a Cas9 nickase).
  • a MS2 hairpin installed on the PEgRNA for co-localization of the DNA polymerase and the RNA-guided DNA binding domain (e.g., a Cas9 nickase).
  • a prime editor comprises a polypeptide domain, an MS2 coat protein (MCP or MS2cp), that recognizes an MS2 hairpin.
  • MCP MS2 coat protein
  • the nucleotide sequence of the MS2 hairpin (or equivalently referred to as the ”MS2 aptamer”) is: GCCAACATGAGGATCACCCATGTCTGCAGGGCC (SEQ ID NO: 217).
  • the amino acid sequence of the MCP is:
  • components of a prime editor are directly fused to each other. In certain embodiments, components of a prime editor are associated to each other via a linker.
  • a linker can be any chemical group or a molecule linking two molecules or moieties, e.g., a DNA binding domain and a polymerase domain of a prime editor.
  • a linker is an organic molecule, group, polymer, or chemical moiety.
  • the linker comprises a non-peptide moiety.
  • the linker may be as simple as a covalent bond, or it may be a polymeric linker many atoms in length, for example, a polynucleotide sequence.
  • the linker is a covalent bond (e.g., a carbon-carbon bond, disulfide bond, carbon-heteroatom bond, etc.).
  • a peptide linker is 5-100 amino acids in length, for example. 2, 3, 4. 5, 6, 7. 8. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 30-35, 35-40, 40-45, 45-50, 50-60, 60-70, 70-80, 80-90, 90-100, 100-150, or 150-200 amino acids in length.
  • the peptide linker is 16 amino acids in length. 24 amino acids in length, 64 amino acids in length, or 96 amino acids in length.
  • Non-limiting examples of peptide linkers are provided in Table 16.
  • two or more components of a prime editor are linked to each other by a non-peptide linker.
  • the linker is a carbon-nitrogen bond of an amide linkage.
  • the linker is a cyclic or acyclic, substituted or unsubstituted, branched or unbranched aliphatic or heteroaliphatic linker.
  • the linker is polymeric (e.g., polyethylene, polyethylene glycol, polyamide, polyester, etc.).
  • the linker comprises a monomer, dimer, or polymer of aminoalkanoic acid.
  • the linker comprises an aminoalkanoic acid (e.g, glycine, ethanoic acid, alanine, beta-alanine, 3- aminopropanoic acid, 4-aminobutanoic acid, 5-pentanoic acid, etc.).
  • the linker comprises a monomer, dimer, or polymer of aminohexanoic acid (Ahx).
  • the linker is based on a carbocyclic moiety (e.g., cyclopentane, cyclohexane).
  • the linker comprises a polyethylene glycol moiety (PEG).
  • the linker comprises an aryl or heteroaryl moiety.
  • the linker is based on a phenyl ring.
  • the linker may include functionalized moieties to facilitate attachment of a nucleophile (e.g., thiol, amino) from the peptide to the linker.
  • Any electrophile may be used as part of the linker.
  • Exemplary electrophiles include, but are not limited to, activated esters, activated amides, Michael acceptors, alkyl halides, aryl halides, acyl halides, and isothiocyanates.
  • a prime editor may be connected to each other in any order.
  • the DNA binding domain and the DNA polymerase domain of a prime editor may be fused to form a fusion protein, or may be joined by a peptide or protein linker, in any order from the N terminus to the C terminus.
  • a prime editor comprises a DNA binding domain fused or linked to the C-terminal end of a DNA polymerase domain.
  • a prime editor comprises a DNA binding domain fused or linked to the N-terminal end of a DNA polymerase domain.
  • the prime editor comprises a fusion protein comprising the structure NH2- [DNA binding domain]-[DNA polymerase] -COOH; or NH2-[DNA polymerase] -[DNA binding domain]-COOH, wherein each instance of “]-[” indicates the presence of an optional linker sequence.
  • a prime editor comprises a fusion protein and a DNA polymerase domain provided in trans, wherein the fusion protein comprises the structure NH2-[DNA binding domain] -[RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide] -COOH.
  • a prime editor comprises a fusion protein and a DNA binding domain provided in trans, wherein the fusion protein comprises the structure NH2-[DNA polymerase domain] -[RNA-protein recruitment polypeptide] -COOH.
  • a prime editor fusion protein, a polypeptide component of a prime editor, or a polynucleotide encoding the prime editor fusion protein or polypeptide component may be split into an N-terminal half and a C-terminal half or polypeptides that encode the N-terminal half and the C terminal half, and provided to a target DNA in a cell separately.
  • a prime editor fusion protein may be split into a N-terminal and a C-terminal half for separate delivery in AAV vectors, and subsequently translated and colocalized in a target cell to reform the complete polypeptide or prime editor protein.
  • a prime editor comprises a N-terminal half fused to an intein-N, and a C- terminal half fused to an intein-C, or polynucleotides or vectors (e.g., AAV vectors) encoding each thereof.
  • the intein-N and the intein-C can be excised via protein trans-splicing, resulting in a complete prime editor fusion protein in the target cell.
  • the amino acid sequence of an exemplary prime editor (PE) fusion protein and its individual components is shown in Table 17.
  • Table 18 also includes the amino acid sequence of an exemplar ⁇ ' prime editor (PE) fusion protein and its individual components.
  • a prime editing composition comprises a fusion protein comprising a DNA binding domain (e.g, Cas9(H840A)) and a reverse transcriptase (e.g, a variant M-MLV RT) having the following structure: [NLSJ- [Cas9(H840A)]-[linker]-[M- MLV_RT(D200N)(T330P)(L603W)(T306K)(W313F)], and one or more desired PEgRNAs.
  • the prime editing composition comprises a prime editor fusion protein that has the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO:234.
  • a prime editor fusion protein comprises an amino acid sequence that is at least about 70% identical, at least about 80% identical, at least about 90% identical, at least about 95% identical, at least about 96% identical, at least about 97% identical, at least about 98% identical, at least about 99% identical, at least about 99.5% identical, or at least about 99.9% identical to the exemplary PE fusio protein provided below, or any of the prime editor fusion sequences described herein or know n in the art.
  • PEgRNA primary editing guide RNA
  • RNA refers to a guide polynucleotide that comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits for incorporation into the target double stranded DNA.
  • the PEgRNA associates with and directs a prime editor to incorporate the one or more intended nucleotide edits into the target gene via prime editing.
  • a PEgRNA comprises a spacer that is complementary or substantially complementary to a search target sequence on a target strand of the target gene.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a gRNA core that associates with a DNA binding domain, e.g., a CRISPR-Cas protein domain, of a prime editor.
  • the PEgRNA comprises an editing template.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a primer binding site (PBS).
  • a PEgRNA comprises an extension arm that comprises an editing template and a primer binding site (PBS).
  • Dual prime editing involves two different PEgRNAs each complexed with a prime editor.
  • the prime editor is the same for each of the PEgRNA-prime editor complexes.
  • the prime editor is different for each of the PEgRNA-prime editor complexes.
  • each of the two PEgRNAs comprises a region of complementarity to a distinct search target sequence of the double stranded target DNA, wherein the two distinct search target sequences are on the two complementary strands of the double stranded target DNA.
  • the two PEgRNAs each can direct a prime editor to initiate the prime editing process on the two complementary strands of the double stranded target DNA.
  • each of the two PEgRNAs comprises a spacer complementary to a separate search target sequence. In some embodiments, each of the two PEgRNAs anneals with a separate search target sequence through its spacer.
  • a first PEgRNA comprises a first spacer complementary to a first search target sequence on a first strand of a double stranded target DNA, e.g., a double stranded target gene. In the context of the first PEgRNA, the first strand of the double stranded target DNA may be referred to as a first target strand, and the complementary' strand referred to as the first PAM strand.
  • a first PEgRNA comprises a first gRNA core. In some embodiments, a first PEgRNA compnses a first editing template.
  • a first PEgRNA comprises a first primer binding site (PBS) that is complementary' to a free 3’ end formed at the first nick site.
  • PBS primer binding site
  • a second PEgRNA comprises a second spacer complementary to a second search target sequence on a second strand of a double stranded target DNA, e.g., a double stranded target gene.
  • the second strand of the double stranded target DNA may be referred to as a second target strand, and the complementary strand referred to as the second PAM strand.
  • a second PEgRNA comprises a second gRNA core.
  • a second PEgRNA comprises a second editing template.
  • a second PEgRNA compnses a second primer binding site (PBS) that is complementary to a free 3’ end formed at the second nick site.
  • PBS primer binding site
  • the first editing template of a first PEgRNA and the second editing template of a second PEgRNA comprise a region of complementarity to each other.
  • the region of complementarity' betyveen the first editing template and the second editing template comprises a nucleotide sequence that is exogenous to the double stranded target DNA or target gene.
  • the exogenous sequence may be a marker, expression tag, barcode or regulatory sequence.
  • the region of complementarity betyveen the first editing template and the second editing template comprises a nucleotide sequence that is at least partially identical to a sequence in the double stranded target DNA or target gene.
  • the region of complementarity betyveen the first editing template and the second editing template comprises a nucleotide sequence that is at least partially identical to a sequence in the IND.
  • the first editing template of a first PEgRNA and the second editing template of a second PEgRNA do not comprise a region of complementarity' to each other.
  • the first editing template of a first PEgRNA comprises region of identity to a sequence on the first target strand (or the first strand)
  • the second editing template comprises a region of identity to a sequence on the second target strand (or the second strand).
  • the first editing template of a first PEgRNA comprises a region of identity to a sequence on the first target strand immediately adjacent to and outside the IND.
  • the second editing template of a second PEgRNA comprises a region of identity to a sequence on the second target strand immediately adjacent to and outside the IND.
  • an editing template comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits to be incorporated in the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene, by prime editing.
  • incorporation of the newly synthesized single stranded DNA encoded by the editing template results in incorporation of one or more intended nucleotide edit in the double stranded target DNA, e.g.. the DMPK gene, compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene.
  • the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion, insertion, and/or substitution of one or more nucleotides compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion of an array of tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion of an array of CTG repeats compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion of an array of tri -nucleotide repeats, e.g.. an array of CTG repeats, and insertion of one or more exogenous sequences compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion of a portion of an array of tri-nucleotide repeats, e.g., an array of CTG repeats, and optionally insertion of one or more exogenous sequences compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion of 1-3, 1-5, 1-10, 1-15, 1-20, 1-25, 1-30, 1-35, 1-40, 1- 45, 1-50, 1-55, 1-60, 1-75 or more tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene, e.g.. the DMPK gene.
  • the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion of 1-3, 1-5, 1-10, 1-15, 1-20, 1- 25, 1-30, 1-35, 1-40, 1-45, 1-50, 1-55, 1-60, 1-75 or more tri-nucleotide repeats compared to the endogenous sequence of the double stranded target gene, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the one or more intended nucleotide edits comprises deletion of 5-10. 5-15. 5- 20, 5-25, 5-30, 5-35, 5-40, 5-50, 5-60, 5-70, 5-80, 5-90, 5-100, 20-30, 20-40, 20-50, 20-60, 20-70.
  • the editing template is a template for an RNA-dependent DNA polymerase domain or polypeptide of the prime editor, for example, a reverse transcriptase domain.
  • the reverse transcriptase editing template may also be referred to herein as an RT template, or RTT.
  • the extension arm comprises a primer binding site sequence (PBS) that can initiate target-primed DNA synthesis.
  • PBS primer binding site sequence
  • the PBS is complementary or substantially complementary to a free 3’ end on the edit strand of the target gene at a nick site generated by the prime editor.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises a first PBS that comprises a region of complementarity to the second strand of the double stranded target DNA or target gene.
  • the second PEgRNA comprises a second PBS that comprises a region of complementarity to the first strand of the double stranded target DNA or target gene.
  • the first PEgRNA comprises a first PBS that comprises a region of complementarity to the first spacer of the first PEgRNA. In some embodiments, the first PEgRNA comprises a first PBS that is at least partially complementary to the first spacer of the first PEgRNA. In some embodiments, the second PEgRNA comprises a second PBS that comprises a region of complementarity to the second spacer of the second PEgRNA. In some embodiments, the second PEgRNA comprises a second PBS that is at least partially complementary to the second spacer of the second PEgRNA.
  • a PEgRNA includes only RNA nucleotides and forms an RNA polynucleotide.
  • a PEgRNA is a chimeric polynucleotide that includes both RNA and DNA nucleotides.
  • a PEgRNA can include DNA in the spacer, the gRNA core, or the extension arm.
  • a PEgRNA comprises DNA in the spacer.
  • the entire spacer of a PEgRNA is a DNA sequence.
  • the PEgRNA comprises DNA in the gRNA core, for example, in a stem region of the gRNA core.
  • the PEgRNA comprises DNA in the extension arm, for example, in the editing template.
  • An editing template that comprises a DNA sequence may serve as a DNA synthesis template for a DNA polymerase in a prime editor, for example, a DNA-dependent DNA polymerase.
  • the PEgRNA may be a chimeric polynucleotide that comprises RNA in the spacer, gRNA core, and/or the PBS sequences and DNA in the editing template.
  • Components of a PEgRNA may be arranged in a modular fashion.
  • the spacer, the primer binding site sequence (PBS) and the editing template can be interchangeably located in the 5’ portion of the PEgRNA, the 3’ portion of the PEgRNA, or in the middle of the gRNA core.
  • a PEgRNA comprises a PBS and an editing template sequence in 5’ to 3' order.
  • the gRNA core of a PEgRNA of this disclosure may be located in between a spacer and an extension arm (i.e., the PBS and editing template) of the PEgRNA.
  • the gRNA core of a PEgRNA may be located at the 3’ end of a spacer.
  • the gRNA core of a PEgRNA may be located at the 5 ‘ end of a spacer. In some embodiments, the gRNA core of a PEgRNA may be located at the 3’ end of an extension arm. In some embodiments, the gRNA core of a PEgRNA may be located at the 5 ’ end of an extension arm. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises, from 5’ to 3’: a spacer, a gRNA core, and an extension arm. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises, from 5" to 3’: a spacer, a gRNA core, an editing template, and a PBS.
  • a PEgRNA comprises, from 5’ to 3’: an extension arm, a spacer, and a gRNA core. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA comprises, from 5’ to 3’: an editing template, a PBS, a spacer, and a gRNA core. In some embodiments, a first PEgRNA comprises a structure: 5'-[first spacer] -[first gRNA core]-[first editing template]-[first primer binding site sequence] -3’. In some embodiments, a first PEgRNA comprises a structure: 5'- [first editing template] -[first primer binding site sequence]- [first spacer] -[first gRNA core]-3’.
  • a second PEgRNA comprises a structure: 5'-[second spacer] -[second gRNA core]-[second editing template]-[second primer binding site sequence]-3 ⁇ In some embodiments, a second PEgRNA comprises a structure: 5'- [second editing template] -[second primer binding site sequence]- [second spacer] -[second gRNA core] -3’.
  • a PEgRNA comprises a single polynucleotide molecule that comprises the spacer, the gRNA core, and the editing template. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises a single polynucleotide molecule that compnses the spacer, the gRNA core, and the extension arm (i.e., a PBS and editing template). In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises multiple polynucleotide molecules, for example, two polynucleotide molecules.
  • a PEgRNA comprise a first polynucleotide molecule that comprises the spacer and a portion of the gRNA core, and a second polynucleotide molecule that comprises the rest of the gRNA core and the extension arm.
  • the gRNA core portion in the first polynucleotide molecule and the gRNA core portion in the second polynucleotide molecule are at least partly complementary to each other.
  • the PEgRNA may comprise a first polynucleotide comprising the spacer and a first portion of a gRNA core referred to as a crRNA.
  • the PEgRNA comprise a second polynucleotide comprising a second portion of the gRNA core and the extension arm, wherein the second portion of the gRNA core may also be referred to as a trans-activating crRNA, or tracr RNA.
  • the crRNA portion and the tracr RNA portion of the gRNA core are at least partially complementary to each other.
  • the partially complementary portions of the crRNA and the tracr RNA form a lower stem, a bulge, and an upper stem, as exemplified in FIG. 3.
  • a first spacer comprises a region that has substantial complementarity to a first search target sequence on a first target strand, or first strand, of a double stranded target DNA, e.g, aDMPK gene.
  • the first spacer of a PEgRNA is identical or substantially identical to a protospacer sequence on the second strand of the target gene (except that the protospacer sequence comprises thymine and the spacer may comprise uracil).
  • the first spacer is at least about 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% complementary to a first search target sequence in the target gene.
  • the first spacer is substantially complementary to the first search target sequence.
  • a second spacer comprises a region that has substantial complementarity to a second search target sequence on the second target strand, or the second strand, of a double stranded target DNA, e.g., aDMPK gene.
  • the second spacer of a PEgRNA is identical or substantially identical to a protospacer on the first strand of the target gene (except that the protospacer comprises thymine and the spacer may comprise uracil).
  • the second spacer is at least about 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% complementary to a second search target sequence in the target gene.
  • the second spacer is substantially complementary to the second search target sequence.
  • the length of the spacer varies from at least 10 nucleotides to 100 nucleotides.
  • a spacer may be at least 10 nucleotides, at least 11 nucleotides, at least 12 nucleotides, at least 13 nucleotides, at least 14 nucleotides, at least 15 nucleotides, at least 16 nucleotides, at least 17 nucleotides, at least 18 nucleotides, at least 19 nucleotides, at least 20 nucleotides, at least 21 nucleotides, at least 22 nucleotides, at least 23 nucleotides, at least 24 nucleotides, at least 25 nucleotides, at least 30 nucleotides, at least 40 nucleotides, at least 50 nucleotides, at least 60 nucleotides, at least 70 nucleotides, at least 80 nucleotides, at least 90 nucleotides, at least 100 nucle
  • the spacer is 16 nucleotides, 17 nucleotides, 18 nucleotides, 19 nucleotides, 20 nucleotides, 21 nucleotides, 22 nucleotides, 23 nucleotides, 24 nucleotides, or 25 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the spacer is from 15 nucleotides to 30 nucleotides in length, 15 to 25 nucleotides in length.
  • the spacer is 20 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the spacer is 17 to 18 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the spacer is 21 to 22 nucleotides in length.
  • the extension arm of a first PEgRNA may be partially complementary' to the spacer of the first PEgRNA.
  • the editing template (e.g.. RTT) of a first PEgRNA is partially complementary to the spacer of the first PEgRNA.
  • the editing template (e.g., RTT) and the primer binding site (PBS) of the first PEgRNA are each partially complementary' to the spacer of the first PEgRNA.
  • the extension arm of a PEgRNA may comprise a primer binding site (PBS) and an editing template (e.g.. an RTT).
  • the extension arm of a second PEgRNA may be partially complementary to the spacer of the second PEgRNA.
  • the editing template (e.g, RTT) of a second PEgRNA is partially complementary to the spacer of the second PEgRNA.
  • the editing template (e.g. , RTT) and the primer binding site (PBS) of the second PEgRNA are each partially complementary to the spacer of the second PEgRNA.
  • An extension arm of a PEgRNA may comprise a primer binding site sequence (also referred to as a primer binding site, PBS, or PBS sequence) that hybridizes with a free 3’ end of a single stranded DNA in the target gene (e.g., the DMPK gene) generated by nicking with a prime editor.
  • the length of the PBS sequence may vary’ depending on, e.g., the prime editor components, the search target sequence and other components of the PEgRNA.
  • the length of the primer binding site (PBS) varies from at least 2 nucleotides to 50 nucleotides.
  • a primer binding site may be at least 2 nucleotides, at least 3 nucleotides, at least 4 nucleotides, at least 5 nucleotides, at least 6 nucleotides, at least 7 nucleotides, at least 8 nucleotides, at least 9 nucleotides, at least 10 nucleotides, at least 1 1 nucleotides, at least 12 nucleotides, at least 13 nucleotides, at least 14 nucleotides, at least 15 nucleotides, at least 16 nucleotides, at least 17 nucleotides, at least 18 nucleotides, at least 19 nucleotides, at least 20 nucleotides, at least 30 nucleotides, at least 40 nucleotides, or at least 50 nucleotides in length.
  • the PBS is at least 4 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is at least 6 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is about 4 to 12 nucleotides, about 6 to 12 nucleotides, about 8 to 12 nucleotides, about 10 to 12 nucleotides.
  • the PBS is about 7 to 15 nucleotides in length.
  • the PBS is 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18. 19, or 20 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 3 to 19 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 3 to 17 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is about 8 to 17 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 8 to 9, 8 to 10, 8 to 11, or 8 to 12 nucleotides in length.
  • the PBS of a first PEgRNA may be complementary or substantially complementary to a DNA sequence in the second strand of the target gene.
  • the PBS of a second PEgRNA may be complementary or substantially complementary to a DNA sequence in the first strand of the target gene.
  • a PBS may initiate synthesis of a new single stranded DNA encoded by the editing template at the nick site.
  • a PBS is at least about 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or 100% complementary to a region of the edit strand of the target gene (e.g. , the DMPK gene).
  • a PBS is perfectly complementary 7 , or 100% complementary, to a region of the edit strand of the target gene (e.g., the DMPK gene).
  • An extension arm of a PEgRNA may comprise an editing template that serves as a DNA synthesis template for the DNA polymerase in a prime editor during prime editing.
  • the length of an editing template may vary 7 depending on, e.g, the prime editor components, the search target sequence and other components of the PEgRNA.
  • the editing template serves as a DNA synthesis template for a reverse transcriptase, and the editing template is referred to as a reverse transcription editing template or simply reverse transcriptase template (RTT).
  • the editing template (e.g, RTT) is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11,
  • the editing template comprises 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12,
  • the editing template comprises about 5 to 10, 5 to 15, 5 to 20. 5 to 25, 5 to 30, 5 to 35, 5 to 40, 5 to 45, 5 to 50, 5 to 55, 5 to 60, 5 to 65, 5 to 70, 5 to 75, 5 to 80, 5 to 85, 5 to 90, 5 to 95, 5 to 100, 5 to 110, 5 to 120, 5 to 130, 5 to 140, 5 to 150, 15 to 20, 15 to 25, 15 to 30, 15 to 35, 15 to 40, 15 to 45, 15 to 50, 15 to 55, 15 to 60, 15 to 65, 15 to 70, 15 to 75, 15 to 80, 15 to 85, 15 to 90, 15 to 95, 15 to 100, 15 to 110, 15 to 120, 15 to 130, 15 to 140, 15 to 150, 25 to 30, 25 to 35, 25 to 40, 25 to 45, 25 to 50, 25 to 55, 25 to 60, 25 to 65, 25 to 70, 25 to 75,
  • 45 to 50. 45 to 55, 45 to 60, 45 to 65, 45 to 70, 45 to 75, 45 to 80, 45 to 85, 45 to 90, 45 to 95, 45 to 100, 45 to 110, 45 to 120, 45 to 130, 45 to 140, o45 to 150, 55 to 60, 55 to 65, 55 to 70, 55 to 75, 55 to 80, 55 to 85, 55 to 90, 55 to 95, 55 to 100, 55 to 110, 55 to 120, 55 to 130, 55 to 140, 55 to 150, 65 to 70, 65 to 75, 65 to 80, 65 to 85, 65 to 90, 65 to 95.
  • the editing template comprises 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 or 25 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises no greater than 20. 25. 30. 35. 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises a sufficient number of nucleotides to form a sufficiently stable duplex with a sequence on the double stranded target DNA. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises at least 10 polynucleotides. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises at least 15 polynucleotides. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises at least 20 polynucleotides.
  • RTT’s may also include sequences unrelated to the endogenous sequence. This may be done, for example, to insert a readily-identifiable sequence to permit rapid determination of successful editing, or to improve editing efficiency by controlling insert length or GC content.
  • the editing template has a GC content of about 40%. In some embodiments, the editing template has a GC content of about 50%. In some embodiments, the editing template has a GC content of about 60%. In some embodiments, the editing template has a GC content of about 70%. In some embodiments, the editing template has a GC content of about 80%.
  • An intended nucleotide edit in an editing template of a PEgRNA may comprise various types of alterations as compared to the target gene sequence.
  • the nucleotide edit is a single nucleotide substitution as compared to the target gene sequence.
  • the nucleotide edit is a deletion as compared to the target gene sequence.
  • the nucleotide edit is an insertion as compared to the target gene sequence.
  • the editing template comprises one to ten intended nucleotide edits as compared to the target gene sequence.
  • the editing template comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits as compared to the target gene sequence.
  • the editing template comprises two or more intended nucleotide edits as compared to the target gene sequence. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises three or more intended nucleotide edits as compared to the target gene sequence. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises four or more, five or more, or six or more intended nucleotide edits as compared to the target gene sequence. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises two single nucleotide substitutions, insertions, deletions, or any combination thereof, as compared to the target gene sequence. In some embodiments, the editing template comprises three single nucleotide substitutions, insertions, deletions, or any combination thereof, as compared to the target gene sequence.
  • the editing template comprises four, five, or six single nucleotide substitutions, insertions, deletions, or any combination thereof, as compared to the target gene sequence.
  • a nucleotide substitution comprises an adenine (A)-to-thymine (T) substitution.
  • a nucleotide substitution comprises an A-to-guanine (G) substitution.
  • a nucleotide substitution comprises an A-to-cytosine (C) substitution.
  • a nucleotide substitution comprises a T-A substitution.
  • a nucleotide substitution comprises a T-G substitution.
  • a nucleotide substitution comprises a T-C substitution. In some embodiments, a nucleotide substitution comprises a G-to-A substitution. In some embodiments, a nucleotide substitution comprises a G-to-T substitution. In some embodiments, a nucleotide substitution comprises a G-to-C substitution. In some embodiments, a nucleotide substitution comprises a C-to-A substitution. In some embodiments, a nucleotide substitution comprises a C-to-T substitution. In some embodiments, a nucleotide substitution comprises a C-to-G substitution.
  • a nucleotide insertion is at least 5 nucleotides, at least 6 nucleotides, at least 7 nucleotides, at least 8 nucleotides, at least 9 nucleotides, at least 10 nucleotides, at least 11 nucleotides, at least 12 nucleotides, at least 13 nucleotides, at least 14 nucleotides, at least 15 nucleotides, at least 16 nucleotides, at least 17 nucleotides, at least 18 nucleotides, at least 19 nucleotides, or at least 20 nucleotides in length.
  • a nucleotide insertion is from 1 to 2 nucleotides, from 1 to 3 nucleotides, from 1 to 4 nucleotides, from 1 to 5 nucleotides, form 2 to 5 nucleotides, from 3 to 5 nucleotides, from 3 to 6 nucleotides, from 3 to 8 nucleotides, from 4 to 9 nucleotides, from 5 to 10 nucleotides, from 6 to 11 nucleotides, from 7 to 12 nucleotides, from 8 to 13 nucleotides, from 9 to 14 nucleotides, from 10 to 15 nucleotides, from 11 to 16 nucleotides, from 12 to 17 nucleotides, from 13 to 18 nucleotides, from 14 to 19 nucleotides, from 15 to 20 nucleotides in length.
  • a nucleotide insertion is a single nucleotide insertion.
  • a nucleotide insertion is a single nucleot
  • the editing template of a PEgRNA may comprise one or more intended nucleotide edits, compared to the DMPK gene to be edited. Position of the intended nucleotide edit(s) relevant to other components of the PEgRNA, or to particular nucleotides (e.g, mutations) in the DMPK target gene may vary.
  • the nucleotide edit is in a region of the PEgRNA corresponding to or homologous to the protospacer sequence. In some embodiments, the nucleotide edit is in a region of the PEgRNA corresponding to a region of the DMPK gene outside of the protospacer sequence.
  • incorporation of the one or more intended nucleotide edits results in deletion of the inter-nick duplex (IND) from the double stranded target DNA, e.g., the DMPK gene.
  • the IND comprises a mutation compared to a wild type gene sequence, e.g., a wild ty pe DMPK gene.
  • the IND comprises a mutation in the 3’ untranslated region of ⁇ hsDMPK gene as compared to a wild type DMPK gene.
  • the mutation is expansion of the number of CTG repeats compared to a wild type DMPK gene.
  • the IND is located between positions corresponding to positions 45770205 and 45770207 of human chromosome 19 as set forth in human genome research consortium human build 38 (GRCh38). In some embodiments, the IND is located between positions corresponding to positions 45770105 and 45770307 of human chromosome 19 as set forth in human genome research consortium human build 38 (GRCh38). In some embodiments, the IND is located between positions corresponding to positions 45770005 and 45770407 of human chromosome 19 as set forth in human genome research consortium human build 38 (GRCh38). In some embodiments, the IND is located between positions corresponding to positions 45776905 and 45770507 of human chromosome 19 as set forth in human genome research consortium human build 38 (GRCh38)
  • the editing template comprises an adenine at the first nucleobase position (e.g.. for a PEgRNA following 5’-spacer-gRNA core-RTT-PBS-3’ orientation, the 5’ most nucleobase is the “first base”).
  • the editing template comprises a guanine at the first nucleobase position (e.g., for a PEgRNA following 5’-spacer-gRNA core-RTT-PBS-3’ orientation, the 5’ most nucleobase is the “first base”).
  • the editing template comprises an uracil at the first nucleobase position (e.g., for a PEgRNA following 5’-spacer-gRNA core-RTT-PBS-3’ orientation, the 5’ most nucleobase is the “first base”).
  • the editing template comprises a cytosine at the first nucleobase position (e.g., for a PEgRNA following 5‘- spacer-gRNA core-RTT-PBS-3’ orientation, the 5’ most nucleobase is the “first base”).
  • the editing template does not comprise a cytosine at the first nucleobase position (e.g., for a PEgRNA following 5’-spacer-gRNA core-RTT-PBS-3’ orientation, the 5’ most nucleobase is the “first base”).
  • a guide RNA core (also referred to herein as the gRNA core, gRNA scaffold, or gRNA backbone sequence) of a PEgRNA may contain a polynucleotide sequence that binds to a DNA binding domain (e.g., Cas9) of a prime editor.
  • the gRNA core may interact with a prime editor as described herein, for example, by association with a DNA binding domain, such as a Cas9 nickase of the prime editor.
  • the gRNA core is capable of binding to a Cas9-based prime editor. In some embodiments, the gRNA core is capable of binding to a Cpfl -based prime editor. In some embodiments, the gRNA core is capable of binding to a Casl2b-based prime editor.
  • the gRNA core comprises regions and secondary structures involved in binding with specific CRISPR Cas proteins.
  • the gRNA core of a PEgRNA may comprise one or more regions of a base paired “lower stem” adjacent to the spacer and a base paired “upper stem” following the lower stem, where the lower stem and upper stem may be connected by a “bulge” comprising unpaired RNAs.
  • the gRNA core may further comprise a “nexus” distal from the spacer, followed by a hairpin structure, e.g, at the 3’ end, as exemplified in FIG. 3.
  • the gRNA core comprises modified nucleotides as compared to a wild type gRNA core in the lower stem, upper stem, and/or the hairpin.
  • nucleotides in the lower stem, upper stem, and/or the hairpin regions may be modified, deleted, or replaced.
  • RNA nucleotides in the lower stem, upper stem, and/or the hairpin regions may be replaced with one or more DNA sequences.
  • the gRNA core comprises unmodified or wild type RNA sequences in the nexus and/or the bulge regions.
  • the gRNA core does not include long stretches of A-T pairs, for example, a GUUUU-AAAAC pairing element.
  • the gRNA core comprises a nucleotide sequence selected from Table 7. or a nucleotide sequence having at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%. 96%, 97%, 98%. or 99% sequence identity therewith.
  • the secondary structure comprises a nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 134. or a nucleotide sequence having at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%. 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity therewith.
  • the secondary structure comprises a nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 135, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%. or 99% sequence identity therewith.
  • a PEgRNA sequence or fragments thereof such as a spacer, PBS, or RTT sequence
  • the letter “T” or “thymine” indicates a nucleobase in a DNA sequence that encodes the PEgRNA or guide RNA sequence, and is intended to refer to a uracil (U) nucleobase of the PEgRNA or guide RNA or any chemically modified uracil nucleobase known in the art, such as 5- methoxyuracil.
  • Any gRNA core sequences known in the art are also contemplated in the prime editing compositions described herein.
  • one or more nucleotides in the gRNA core is DNA.
  • a PEgRNA is produced by transcription from a template nucleotide, for example, a template plasmid.
  • a polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNA is appended with one or more additional nucleotides that improves PEgRNA expression, e.g.. expression from a plasmid that encodes the PEgRNA or ngRNA.
  • a polynucleotide encoding a PEgRNA is appended with one or more additional nucleotides at the 5’ end or at the 3’ end.
  • the polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNA is appended with a guanine at the 5’ end, for example, if the first nucleotide at the 5’ end of the spacer is not a guanine.
  • a polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNA is appended with nucleotide sequence CACC at the 5’ end.
  • the polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNA is appended with additional nucleotide sequence TTTT, TTTTTTT, TTTTT. or TTTT at the 3 ’ end.
  • the PEgRNA comprises the appended nucleotides from the transcription template.
  • the PEgRNA or ngRNA further comprises one or more nucleotides at the 5’ end or the 3’ end in addition to spacer, PBS, and RTT sequences, in some embodiments, the PEgRNA or ngRNA further comprises a guanine at the 5 ’ end, for example, when the first nucleotide at the 5’ end of the spacer is not a guanine. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA or ngRNA further comprises nucleotide sequence CACC at the 5 ‘ end. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA or ngRNA further comprises nucleotide sequence UUUUUU, UUUUU, UUUUU, or UUUU at the 3' end.
  • a PEgRNA may also comprise optional modifiers, e.g., 3' end modifier region and/or an 5' end modifier region.
  • a PEgRNA comprises at least one nucleotide that is not part of a spacer, a gRNA core, or an extension arm.
  • the optional sequence modifiers could be positioned within or between any of the other regions shown, and not limited to being located at the 3' and 5' ends.
  • the PEgRNA comprises secondary RNA structure, such as.
  • a PEgRNA comprises a short stretch of uracil at the 5’ end or the 3’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprising a 3’ extension arm comprises a “UULT sequence at the 3’ end of the extension arm.
  • a PEgRNA comprises a toeloop sequence at the 3’ end.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a 3’ extension arm and a toeloop sequence at the 3’ end of the extension arm. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA comprises a 5’ extension arm and a toeloop sequence at the 5’ end of the extension arm. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA comprises a toeloop element having the sequence 5’-GAAANNNNN-3’, wherein N is any nucleobase.
  • the secondary RNA structure is positioned within the spacer. In some embodiments, the secondary structure is positioned within the extension arm. In some embodiments, the secondary structure is positioned within the gRNA core.
  • the secondary 7 structure is positioned between the spacer and the gRNA core, between the gRNA core and the extension arm, or between the spacer and the extension arm. In some embodiments, the secondary structure is positioned between the PBS and the editing template. In some embodiments, the secondary structure is positioned at the 3' end or at the 5’ end of the PEgRNA. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA comprises a transcriptional termination signal at the 3' end of the PEgRNA.
  • a PEgRNA comprises up to 50 nucleotides, up to 40 nucleotides, up to 30 nucleotides, up to 20 nucleotides, or up to 10 nucleotides of optional sequence modifiers at either or both of the 3’ and 5’ ends of the PEgRNA.
  • the PEgRNA may comprise a chemical linker or a poly(N) linker or tail, where “N” can be any nucleobase.
  • the chemical linker may function to prevent reverse transcription of the gRNA core.
  • a PEgRNA of this disclosure may include modified nucleotides, e.g., chemically modified DNA or RNA nucleobases, and may include one or more nucleobase analogs (e.g, modifications which might add functionality, such as temperature resilience).
  • PEgRNAs as described herein may be chemically modified.
  • the phrase ’‘chemical modifications,’’ as used herein, can include modifications which introduce chemistries which differ from those seen in naturally occurring DNA or RNAs, for example, covalent modifications such as the introduction of modified nucleotides, (e.g, nucleotide analogs, or the inclusion of pendant groups which are not naturally found in DNA or RNA molecules).
  • the PEgRNAs provided in this disclosure may have undergone a chemical or biological modifications. Modifications may be made at any position within a PEgRNA, and may include modification to a nucleobase or to a phosphate backbone of the PEgRNA. In some embodiments, chemical modifications can be structure guided modifications. In some embodiments, a chemical modification is at the 5’ end and/or the 3 ’ end of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a chemical modification may be within the spacer, the extension arm, the editing template sequence, or the primer binding site of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a chemical modification may be within the spacer or the gRNA core of a PEgRNA.
  • a chemical modification may be within the 3’ most nucleotides of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a chemical modification may be within the 3’ most end of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a chemical modification may be within the 5’ most end of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2. 3, 4, or 5 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, or 3 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, or 3 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4. or 5 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, or 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, or 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more contiguous chemically modified nucleotides near the 3 ? end.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end. where the 3' most nucleotide is not modified, and the 1, 2, 3. 4, 5, or more chemically modified nucleotides precede the 3’ most nucleotide in a 5’-to-3’ order.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22. 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 or more chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end, where the 3’ most nucleotide is not modified, and the 1. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 7, 8, 9. 10. 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 or more chemically modified nucleotides precede the 3’ most nucleotide in a 5’-to-3’ order.
  • a PEgRNA comprises one or more chemically modified nucleotides in the gRNA core.
  • the gRNA core of a PEgRNA may comprise one or more regions of a base paired lower stem, a base paired upper stem, where the lower stem and upper stem may be connected by a bulge comprising unpaired RNAs.
  • the gRNA core may further comprise a nexus distal from the spacer.
  • the gRNA core comprises one or more chemically modified nucleotides in the lower stem, upper stem, and/or the hairpin regions. In some embodiments, all of the nucleotides in the lower stem, upper stem, and/or the hairpin regions are chemically modified.
  • a chemical modification to a PEgRNA can comprise a 2'-O-thionocarbamate- protected nucleoside phosphoramidite, a 2'-O-methyl (M), a 2'-O-methyl 3'phosphorothioate (MS), or a 2'-O-methyl 3'thioPACE (MSP), or any combination thereof.
  • M 2'-O-thionocarbamate- protected nucleoside phosphoramidite
  • M 2'-O-methyl
  • MS 2'-O-methyl 3'phosphorothioate
  • MSP 2'-O-methyl 3'thioPACE
  • a chemically modified PEgRNA can comprise a '-O-methyl (M) RNA, a 2'-O- methyl 3'phosphorothioate (MS) RNA, a 2'-O-methyl 3'thioPACE (MSP) RNA, a 2’-F RNA, a phosphorothioate bond modification, any other chemical modifications known in the art, or any combination thereof.
  • a chemical modification may also include, for example, the incorporation of non-nucleotide linkages or modified nucleotides into the PEgRNA (e.g, modifications to one or both of the 3' and 5' ends of a guide RNA molecule).
  • Such modifications can include the addition of bases to an RNA sequence, complexing the RNA with an agent (e.g, a protein or a complementary nucleic acid molecule), and inclusion of elements which change the structure of an RNA molecule (e.g., which form secondary structures).
  • an agent e.g, a protein or a complementary nucleic acid molecule
  • elements which change the structure of an RNA molecule e.g., which form secondary structures.
  • compositions, systems, and methods using a prime editing composition are compositions, systems, and methods using a prime editing composition.
  • the term ‘"prime editing composition” or “prime editing system” refers to compositions involved in the method of prime editing as described herein.
  • a prime editing composition may include a prime editor, e.g. , a prime editor fusion protein, and a PEgRNA.
  • a prime editing composition may further comprise additional elements. Components of a prime editing composition may be combined to form a complex for prime editing, or may be kept separately, e.g. , for administration purposes.
  • a prime editing composition comprises a first prime editing guide RNA (PEgRNA), a second PEgRNA, and a prime editor.
  • a prime editing composition comprises a first prime editing guide RNA (PEgRNA), a second PEgRNA, and a prime editor fusion protein complexed with the first PEgRNA and a prime editor fusion protein complexed with the second PEgRNA.
  • the prime editor fusion protein complexed with the first PEgRNA and the prime editor fusion protein complexed with the second PEgRNA are the identical prime editor fusion protein.
  • the prime editor fusion protein complexed with the first PEgRNA and the prime editor fusion protein complexed with the second PEgRNA are different prime editor fusion proteins.
  • a prime editing composition comprises a first prime editing guide RNA (PEgRNA), a second PEgRNA, and a prime editor comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain associated with each other through the first PEgRNA and/or the second PEgRNA.
  • the prime editing composition may comprise a prime editor comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain linked to each other by an RNA-protein recruitment aptamer RNA sequence, which is linked to either or both of the first and second PEgRNAs.
  • the prime editing composition comprises a first PEgRNA, a second PEgRNA, and a prime editor comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain, wherein the prime editor for both the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA are the same.
  • the prime editing composition comprises a first PEgRNA, a second PEgRNA, and a prime editor comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain, wherein the prime editor for both the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA are different.
  • a prime editing composition comprises a first PEgRNA, a second PEgRNA, and a polynucleotide, a polynucleotide construct, or a vector that encodes a prime editor fusion protein.
  • a prime editing composition comprises a first PEgRNA, a second PEgRNA, and one or more polynucleotides, one or more polynucleotide constructs, or one or more vectors that encode a prime editor comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain.
  • a prime editing composition comprises a first PEgRNA, a second PEgRNA, and a polynucleotide, a polynucleotide construct, or a vector that encodes a prime editor fusion protein.
  • a prime editing composition comprises multiple polynucleotides, polynucleotide constructs, or vectors, each of which encodes one or more prime editing composition components.
  • the first PEgRNA and/or the second PEgRNA of a pnme editing composition is associated with the DNA binding domain, e.g, a Cas9 nickase, of the prime editor.
  • the first PEgRNA and/or the second PEgRNA of a prime editing composition complexes with the DNA binding domain of a prime editor and directs the prime editor to the double stranded target DNA.
  • a prime editing composition comprises one or more polynucleotides that encode prime editor components and/or the first PEgRNA and/or the second PEgRNAs. In some embodiments, a prime editing composition comprises a polynucleotide encoding a fusion protein comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain.
  • a prime editing composition comprises (i) a polynucleotide encoding a fusion protein comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain, (ii) a first PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the first PEgRNA, and (iii) a second PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the second PEgRNA.
  • a prime editing composition consists of (i) a polynucleotide encoding a fusion protein comprising a DNA binding domain and a DNA polymerase domain, (ii) a first PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the first PEgRNA, and (iii) a second PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the second PEgRNA.
  • a prime editing composition comprises (i) a polynucleotide encoding a DNA binding domain of a prime editor, e.g, a Cas9 nickase, (ii) a polynucleotide encoding a DNA polymerase domain of a prime editor, e.g. , a reverse transcriptase, (iii) a first PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the first PEgRNA, and (iv) a second PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the second PEgRNA.
  • a prime editing composition comprises (i) a polynucleotide encoding a DNA binding domain of a prime editor, e.g, a Cas9 nickase, (ii) a polynucleotide encoding a DNA polymerase domain of a prime editor, e.g. , a reverse transcriptase, (iii) a first
  • a prime editing composition consists of (i) a polynucleotide encoding a DNA binding domain of a prime editor, e.g, a Cas9 nickase, (ii) a polynucleotide encoding a DNA polymerase domain of a prime editor, e.g, a reverse transcriptase, (iii) a first PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the first PEgRNA, and (iv) a second PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the second PEgRNA.
  • a prime editing composition comprises (i) a polynucleotide encoding a N-terminal half of a prime editor fusion protein and an intein-N and (ii) a polynucleotide encoding a C-terminal half of a prime editor fusion protein and an intein-C.
  • a prime editing composition comprises (i) a polynucleotide encoding a N-terminal half of a prime editor fusion protein and an intein-N (ii) a polynucleotide encoding a C-terminal half of a prime editor fusion protein and an intein-C, (tii) a first PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the first PEgRNA, and (iv) a second PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the second PEgRNA.
  • a prime editing composition comprises (i) a polynucleotide encoding a N-terminal portion of a DNA binding domain and an intein-N, (ii) a polynucleotide encoding a C-terminal portion of the DNA binding domain, an intein-C, and a DNA polymerase domain.
  • the DNA binding domain is a Cas protein domain, e.g., a Cas9 nickase.
  • the prime editing composition comprises (i) a polynucleotide encoding a N-terminal portion of a DNA binding domain and an intein-N, (ii) a polynucleotide encoding a C-terminal portion of the DNA binding domain, an intein-C, and a DNA polymerase domain, (iii) a first PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the first PEgRNA, and (iv) a second PEgRNA or a polynucleotide encoding the second PEgRNA.
  • the editing template of the first PEgRNA (the ‘‘first editing template”) and the editing template of the second PEgRNA (the “second editing template”) of a prime editing system may or may not have sequence complementarity to each other.
  • the first editing template has a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template is 2. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 or more nucleotides in length.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template is about 5 to 10, 5 to 15, 5 to 20, 5 to 25, 5 to 30, 5 to 35.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template is 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 or 25 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template is 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity 7 to the second editing template is at most 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, or 100 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity 7 to the second editing template is at least 10 nucleotides in length.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template is at least 15 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template is at least 20 nucleotides in length.
  • the first editing template has a region of complementarity to the second editing template and does not have a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the target double stranded DNA sequence.
  • the second editing template has a region of complementarity to the first editing template and does not have a region of complementanty or substantial complementarity to the target double stranded DNA sequence.
  • the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the target double stranded DNA sequence. In some embodiments, the first editing template has a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template and has a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the target double stranded DNA sequence.
  • the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the target double stranded DNA sequence. In some embodiments, the second editing template has a region of complementarity to the first editing template and has a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the target double stranded DNA sequence.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the first editing template to the double stranded target DNA sequence may or may not have the same length as the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the second editing template to the double stranded target DNA sequence.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the first editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 5 to 10, 5 to 15, 5 to 20, 5 to 25. 5 to 30, 5 to 35, 5 to 40, 5 to 45. 5 to 50, 5 to 55, 5 to 60, 5 to 65, 5 to 70, 5 to 75, 5 to 80, 5 to 85, 5 to 90, 5 to 95, 5 to 100, 5 to 110, 5 to 120, 5 to 130, 5 to 140,
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the first editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 10 nucleotides in length.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the first editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 15 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the first editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 20 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the first editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 21, 22, 23, 24, or 25 nucleotides in length.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the second editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 5 to 10, 5 to 15, 5 to 20, 5 to 25. 5 to 30, 5 to 35, 5 to 40, 5 to 45, 5 to 50, 5 to 55, 5 to 60, 5 to 65, 5 to 70, 5 to 75. 5 to 80. 5 to 85, 5 to 90, 5 to 95.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the second editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 10 nucleotides in length.
  • the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the second editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 15 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the second editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 20 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the region of complementarity or substantial complementarity of the second editing template to the target double stranded DNA sequence is about 21, 22, 23, 24, or 25 nucleotides in length.
  • the first editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity or substantial complementarity (the non-complementarity region) to the second editing template. In some embodiments, the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template, and further comprises a non-complementarity region to the second editing template. In some embodiments, the first editing template comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the second editing template, a non-complementarity region to the second editing template, and a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the target double stranded DNA sequence.
  • the second editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity or substantial complementarity (the non-complementanty region) to the first editing template. In some embodiments, the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity or substantial complementanty to the first editing template, and further comprises a non-complementarity region to the first editing template. In some embodiments, the second editing template comprises a region of complementarity' or substantial complementarity' to the first editing template, a non-complementarity region to the first editing template, and a region of complementarity or substantial complementarity to the target double stranded DNA sequence.
  • the region of non-complementarity of the first editing template to the second editing template and the region of non-complementarity' of the second editing template to the first editing template are of the same length. In some embodiments, the region of non-complementarity of the first editing template to the second editing template and the region of non-complementarity of the second editing template to the first editing template are of different lengths. In some embodiments, the first editing template and the second editing template both comprise a region of non-complementarity to each other. In some embodiments, the first editing template comprises a region of non-complementarity to the second editing template, and the second editing template does not comprise a region of non-complementarity to the first editing template.
  • the second editing template comprises a region of non-complementarity to the first editing template, and the first editing template does not comprise a region of non-complementarity to the second editing template.
  • the first editing template may be complementary or substantially complementary to the second editing template through its entire length, while the second editing template comprises a region that does not have complementarity' to the first editing template, or vice versa.
  • the region of non-complementarity of the first editing template to the second editing template is about 5 to 10, 5 to 15, 5 to 20, 5 to 25, 5 to 30, 5 to 35, 5 to 40, 5 to 45, 5 to 50, 5 to 55, 5 to 60, 5 to 65, 5 to 70, 5 to 75, 5 to 80, 5 to 85, 5 to 90, 5 to 95, 5 to 100, 5 to 110, 5 to 120, 5 to 130, 5 to 140, 5 to 150, 5 to 175, 5 to 200, 5 to 225. 5 to 250, 5 to 275, 5 to 300, 5 to 325, 5 to 350, 5 to 375, 5 to 400. 5 to 425.
  • the region of non-complementarity of the first editing template to the second editing template is about 1. 2, 3, 4, 5. 6, 7, 8. 9, 10, 11.
  • the region of non-complementarity of the second editing template to the first editing template is about 5 to 10, 5 to 15, 5 to 20, 5 to 25, 5 to 30, 5 to 35, 5 to 40, 5 to 45, 5 to 50, 5 to 55, 5 to 60, 5 to 65, 5 to 70, 5 to 75, 5 to 80, 5 to 85, 5 to 90, 5 to 95, 5 to 100, 5 to 110, 5 to 120, 5 to 130. 5 to 140, 5 to 150, 5 to 175, 5 to 200, 5 to 225. 5 to 250. 5 to 275, 5 to 300, 5 to 325, 5 to 350, 5 to 375, 5 to 400. 5 to 425.
  • 150 to 275, 150 to 300 150 to 325, 150 to 350, 150 to 375, 150 to 400, 150 to 425, 150 to 450, 150 to 475, 150 to 500, 175 to 200, 175 to 225, 175 to 250. 175 to 275, 175 to 300,
  • the region of non-complementarity of the second editing template to the first editing template is about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15. 16. 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60. 70, 80, 90, 100, 110. 120, 130. 140, 150, 160, 170, 180. 190, 200, 210, 220 ,230. 240, 250. 260, 270, 280, 290. 300, 310. 320, 330, 340, 350, 360. 370, 380, 390, 400, 410. 420, 430. 440, 450, 460, 470, 480, 490, or 500 or more nucleotides in length.
  • the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA have the same gRNA cores. In some embodiments, the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA have different gRNA cores.
  • Exemplar ⁇ - PEgRNA components e.g.. spacer. PBS, and edit template/RTT. as well as PEgRNA sequences are provided in Tables 1-10.
  • a PEgRNA sequence, or fragments thereof such as a spacer, PBS, or RTT sequence, unless indicated otherwise, it should be appreciated that the letter “T” or “thymine” indicates a nucleobase in a DNA sequence that encodes the PEgRNA or guide RNA sequence, and is intended to refer to a uracil (U) nucleobase of the PEgRNA or guide RNA or any chemically modified uracil nucleobase known in the art, such as 5 -methoxy uracil.
  • U uracil
  • a dual prime editing composition can comprise two PEgRNAs, each comprising a spacer, a gRNA core, and an extension arm comprising an editing template and a primer binding site (PBS).
  • An editing template can also be referred to as an RTT.
  • Exemplary PEgRNAs for editing the DMPK gene, as well as corresponding components of PEgRNAs, are provided in Tables 1-10. Each of Tables 1-6 provide spacer and PBS sequences, and exemplary PEgRNA sequences. Tables 1-3 provide exemplary spacer sequences and PBS sequences of a 5’ PEgRNA, as well as exemplar ⁇ - 5’ PEgRNAs that contain a spacer and a PBS provided in the same table.
  • Tables 4-6 provide exemplar ⁇ ’ spacer sequences and PBS sequences of a 3’ PEgRNA, as well as exemplar ⁇ - 3’ PEgRNAs that contain a spacer and a PBS provided in the same table.
  • Each of Tables 1-6 contains three columns. The first column provides the sequence number; the second column provides the sequence of the PEgRNA or component, labeled with a SEQ ID NO where required by ST.26 standard. The third column contains a description of the sequence.
  • Table 7 provides exemplary gRNA core sequences.
  • Table 8 provides exemplary RTT sequences.
  • Table 9 provides exemplary structural motif sequences.
  • Table 10 provides exemplary linker sequences for connecting a 3’ motif sequence to an extension arm of a PEgRNA.
  • PEgRNAs and 3’ PEgRNAs exemplified in Tables 8-23 can be used in a dual prime editing composition with any prime editor containing a Cas9 protein capable of recognizing a NGG PAM sequence, wherein N is A, G, C, or T.
  • a dual prime editing composition for editing of the CTG repeats in the DMPK gene can comprise (A) a 5' PEgRNA (can also be referred to as a first PEgRNA) and a (B) 3’ PEgRNA (can also be referred to as a second PEgRNA), wherein the first PEgRNA comprises (i) a first spacer that comprises at its 3’ end a 5’ spacer sequence provided in any one of Tables 1-3; (ii) a first gRNA core capable of binding to a Cas9 protein; and (iii) a first extension arm comprising a first editing template and a first primer binding site (PBS), wherein the first PBS comprises at its 5’ end any 5’ PBS sequence provided in the same table as the first spacer; wherein the second PEgRNA comprises (i) a second spacer that comprises at its 3’ end a 3’ spacer sequence provided in any one of Tables 4-6; (ii) a second gRNA core capable of binding to a Cas9 protein;
  • a dual prime editing composition for editing of the CTG repeats in the DMPK gene can comprise (A) a 5’ PEgRNA (can also be referred to as a first PEgRNA) selected from any one of the 5’ PEgRNA sequences in Tables 1-3 and a (B) 3’ PEgRNA (can also be referred to as a second PEgRNA) selected from any one of the 3’ PEgRNA sequences in Tables 4-6.
  • A a 5’ PEgRNA (can also be referred to as a first PEgRNA) selected from any one of the 5’ PEgRNA sequences in Tables 1-3 and a (B) 3’ PEgRNA (can also be referred to as a second PEgRNA) selected from any one of the 3’ PEgRNA sequences in Tables 4-6.
  • the 5’ PEgRNA spacers and the 3’ PEgRNA spacers exemplified in Tables 1-6 can be, for example, 17 to 22 nucleotides in length. Each spacer within a single table correspond to the same PAM sequence and nick site when used with a compatible Cas9 nickase. In some embodiments, the 5‘ PEgRNA spacer and/or the 3’ PEgRNA spacer are 20 nucleotides in length.
  • the PBS of the 5’ PEgRNA and the 3’ PEgRNA can be, for example, 5 to 19 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 8 to 17 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 8 to 16 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 8 to 13 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 8, 10, or 12 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the PBS is 10 nucleotides in length.
  • the PBS length(s) in each of the full length PEgRNAs are annotated along with the SEQ ID NO of the PBS sequence in the third column of Tables 1-6.
  • the gRNA core sequence of the 5’ PEgRNA and the gRNA core of the 3’ PEgRNA can comprise a gRNA core capable of binding to a Cas9 nuclease.
  • the gRNA core of the 5’ PEgRNA and the 3’ PEgRNA can be a gRNA scaffold sequence derived from a SpCas9 guide RNA or a variant thereof.
  • Exemplary gRNA core sequences are provided in Table 7. It can be advantageous to select a first PEgRNA and a second PEgRNA that has gRNA core sequences compatible with the same Cas9 protein, thus avoiding the need to use two different Cas9 proteins.
  • the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA have the same gRNA core sequence.
  • nucleotide substitutions and/or insertions are introduced into a gRNA core sequence derived from a canonical SpCas9 gRNA scaffold. Without being bound by theory, such nucleotide substitutions and/or insertions may improve the stability, transcription efficiency, or Cas9 binding efficiency of the gRNA core.
  • the 5’ PEgRNA and the 3 ’PEgRNA comprises a gRNA core comprising SEQ ID NO: 135.
  • the gRNA core sequences used in each of the full length PEgRNAs with SEQ ID NOs are annotated in the third column of Tables 1-6.
  • a dual prime editing composition can comprise a 5’ PEgRNA and a 3’ PEgRNA, wherein the 5’ PEgRNA comprises a spacer selected from any one of Tables 1-3 and a PBS selected from the same table as the 5’ spacer, the 3’ PEgRNA comprises a spacer selected from Tables 4-6 and a PBS selected from the same table as a 3’ spacer, and wherein the RTT of the 5’ PEgRNA (the 5’ RTT) comprise a region of complementarity to the RTT of the 3’ PEgRNA (the 3’ RTT).
  • the 5’ PEgRNA is capable of complexing with a prime editor comprising a Cas9 nickase (e.g.
  • the 3’ PEgRNA is capable of complexing with a prime editor comprising a Cas9 nickase (e.g. a Cas9 having an inactivated HNH nuclease domain) to generate a second nick on the DMPK gene.
  • a Cas9 nickase e.g. a Cas9 having an inactivated HNH nuclease domain
  • contacting the target DMPK gene with the dual prime editing system can result in deletion of the sequence between the first nick and the second nick (the deleted region referred to as the IND) that includes the CTG repeats and insertion of the replacement duplex (RD) encoded by the 5’ RTT and the 3’ RTT.
  • the 5’ RTT and the 3’ RTT can be completely complementary to each other throughout their entire length, or they can be partially complementary, e.g., the region of complementarity can be at the 5’ ends of the 3’ RTT and the 5 ’ RTT.
  • the region of complementarity (also referred to herein as the overlapping duplex or the OD) between the 5’ RTT and the 3’ RTT can have various lengths and GC content.
  • the OD is about 15 to 38 base pairs in length. In some embodiments, the OD is 18 to 38 base pairs in length. In some embodiments, the OD has a GC content of at least about 27%. In some embodiments, the OD has a GC content of about 30% to about 85%. In some embodiments, the OD has a GC content of about 40% to about 70%. In some embodiments, the OD has a GC content of about 63% to about 70%.
  • the RD can also have various lengths and GC content. In some embodiments, when the 5’ RTT and the 3’ RTT are completely complementary to each other throughout their entire length, the OD and the RD have the same length and GC content.
  • the OD and the RD have different lengths and GC content. In some embodiments, the RD has a length of about 15 to about 93 base pairs. In some embodiments, the ratio of OD/RD is at least about 18%. In some embodiments, the ratio of OD/RD is at least about 20%. In some embodiments, the ratio of OD/RD is about 27%, about 29%. about 31%. about 36%, about 40%, about 41%, about 57%, or about 62%. In some embodiments, the OD and the RD have the same sequence and length.
  • RTT pairs are provided in Table 8.
  • Each pair of RTT# 1 and RTT#2 that have the same RTT pairing number can be used as the basis of the RTTs in a PEgRNA pair, with either RTT#1 or RTT#2 serving as the basis for the 5’ RTT and the other as the basis for the 3’ RTT.
  • Each RTT#1 in Table 8 is the perfect reverse complement of the RTT#2 in the same RTT pair.
  • a PEgRNA pair will comprise the full length of RTT# 1 and RTT#2 from a single RTT pair and will form an OD along their complete lengths.
  • At least one of the PEgRNA pair will comprise less than the full-length sequence of the RTT#1 and/or RTT#2 from a single RTT pair. Such RTT pairs will form an RD only at the 5’ ends of the RTTs (corresponding to the 3’ ends of the newly synthesized strands).
  • the first editing template comprises a 5 ' fragment of an RTT listed in Table 8 and wherein the second editing template comprises a full length or 5’ fragment of the corresponding RTT pair and wherein at least 10 nucleotides at the 5’ end of the first and second editing templates have perfect reverse complementarity to each other.
  • the second editing template comprises a 5 ’ fragment of an RTT listed in Table 8 and wherein the first editing template comprises a full length or 5’ fragment of the corresponding RTT pair and wherein at least 10 nucleotides at the 5’ end of the first and second editing templates have perfect reverse complementarity to each other. In any embodiments, at least 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 or more nucleotides at the 5’ end of the first and second editing templates can have perfect reverse complementarity to each other.
  • the 5’ PEgRNA and the 3’ PEgRNA exemplified in Tables 1-6 can comprise, from 5’ to 3’, the spacer, the gRNA core, the editing template (RTT), and the PBS.
  • the 3’ end of the RTT can be contiguous with the 5’ end of the PBS.
  • the PEgRNA can comprise multiple RNA molecules or can be a single RNA molecule.
  • a PEgRNA is transcribed from a nucleotide encoding the PEgRNA, for example, a DNA plasmid encoding the PEgRNA.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a self-cleaving element.
  • the self-cleaving element improves transcription and/or processing of the PEgRNA when transcribed form the nucleotide encoding the PEgRNA.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a hairpin or a RNA quadruplex.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a self-cleaving ribozyme element, for example, a hammerhead, a pistol, a hatchet, a hairpin, a VS, a twister, or a twister sister ribozyme.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a HDV ribozyme.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a hairpin recognized by Csy4.
  • the PEgRNA comprises an ENE motif. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA comprises an element for nuclear expression (ENE) from MALAT1 Inc RNA. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA comprises an ENE element from Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). In some embodiments, the PEgRNA comprises a 3’ box of a U1 snRNA. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA forms a circular RNA.
  • ENE element for nuclear expression
  • KSHV Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus
  • any PEgRNA exemplified in Tables 1-6 may comprise, or further comprise, a structural motif or a secondary structure at the 5’ end of the PEgRNA and/or the 3’ end of the extension arm.
  • a structural motif that is capable of forming a secondary structure on its own. such as a hairpin, a pseudoknot, or other RNA structure or motif is used.
  • the structure motif is at the 3’ end of the PEgRNA, e.g., connected to the 3‘ end of the PBS.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a RNA secondary structure or a motif that improves binding to the DNA-RNA duple or enhances PEgRNA activity.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a sequence derived from a native nucleotide element involved in reverse transcription, e.g., initiation of retroviral transcription.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a sequence of. or derived from, a primer binding site of a substrate of a reverse transcriptase, a polypurine tract (PPT), or a kissing loop.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a dimerization motif, a kissing loop, or a GNRA tetraloop - tetraloop receptor pair that results in circularization of the PEgRNA.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a RNA secondary structure of a motif that results in physical separation of the spacer and the PBS of the PEgRNA, thereby prevents occlusion of the spacer and improves PEgRNA activity’.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a secondary’ structure or motif, e.g., a 5’ or 3’ extension in the spacer region that form a toehold or hairpin, wherein the secondary structure or motif competes favorably against annealing between the spacer and the PBS of the PEgRNA.
  • the secondary structure comprises a pseudoknot. In some embodiments, the secondary structure comprises a pseudoknot derived from a virus. In some embodiments, the secondary structure comprises a pseudoknot of a Moloney murine leukemia virus (M-MLV) genome (a mpknot). In some embodiments, the secondary structure comprises a quadruplex. In some embodiments, the secondary structure comprises a G-quadruplex.
  • M-MLV Moloney murine leukemia virus
  • the secondary structure comprises a riboswitch aptamer. In some embodiments, the secondary structure comprises a riboswitch aptamer derived from a prequeosine-1 riboswitch aptamer. In some embodiments, the secondary structure comprises a modified prequeosine-1 riboswitch aptamer.
  • Exemplar ⁇ ’ structural motifs are provided in Table 9. Additional motifs, e g., 3’ motifs as described in PCT applications WO2020191234 W02022067130, are also incorporated herein by reference in its entirty.
  • the secondary structure comprises a nucleotide sequence selected from Table 9, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 80%. 85%, 90%, 95%, 96%. 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity therewith.
  • the secondary structure comprises a nucleotide sequence of SEQ ID NO: 142, or a nucleotide sequence having at least 80%, 85%. 90%, 95%, 96%. 97%, 98%, or 99% sequence identity therewith.
  • the secondary stnicture is linked to one or more other component of a PEgRNA via a linker.
  • the secondary structure is at the 3’ end of the PEgRNA and is linked to the 3’ end of a PBS via a linker.
  • the secondary structure is at the 5’ end of the PEgRNA and is linked to the 5’ end of a spacer via a linker.
  • the linker is a nucleotide linker that is 1, 2, 3, 4. 5. 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13. 14, 15, 16, 17. 18, 19, 20, 21. 22, 23, 24, 25. 26, T1 , 28, 29, 30. 31, 32, 33, 34. 35, 36, 37, 38, 39.
  • the linker is 5 to 10 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the linker is 10 to 20 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the linker is 15 to 25 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the linker is 8 nucleotides in length. In some embodiments, the linker is 6 nucleotides in length.
  • the linker is designed to minimize base pairing between the linker and another component of tire PEgRNA. In some embodiments, the linker is designed to minimize base pairing between the linker and the spacer. In some embodiments, the linker is designed to minimize base pairing between the linker and the PBS. In some embodiments, the linker is designed to minimize base pairing between the linker and the editing template. In some embodiments, the linker is designed to minimize base pairing betw een the linker and the sequence of the RNA secondary structure. In some embodiments, the linker is optimized to minimize base pairing between the linker and another component of the PEgRNA, in order of the following priority: spacer, PBS. editing template and then scaffold.
  • base paring probability is calculated using ViennaRNA 2.0 under standard parameters (37° C. 1 M NaCl, 0.05 M MgC12).
  • a linker sequence is specifically designed for a particular spacer, PBS, RTT combination. Without being bound by theory, such sequence specific linkers may optimize the secondary structure of the PEgRNA and improve stability'.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a RNA secondary structure and/or a linker disclosed in Nelson et al. Engineered PEgRNAs improve prime editing efficiency. Nat Biotechnol. (2021), the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.
  • a PEgRNA may comprise one or more additional nucleotides.
  • a PEgRNA is produced by transcription from a template nucleotide, for example, a template plasmid.
  • PEgRNA sequences exemplified in Tables 1-6 may also be adapted for expression from a nucleic acid template with, e.g., a U6 promoter, and one or more additional nucleotides maybe appended to the PEgRNA to improve PEgRNA function or expression, e.g., expression from a plasmid that encodes the PEgRNA.
  • the polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNA is appended with a guanine at the 5’ end. for example, if the first nucleotide at the 5’ end of the spacer is not a guanine.
  • a polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNA is appended with nucleotide sequence CACC at the 5’ end.
  • the polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNA is appended with an additional nucleotide adenine at the 3’ end.
  • the transcribed PEgRNA will contain a variable number of 3’ U nucleotides (e.g., 3-7 Us).
  • the polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNA is appended with a PEgRNA comprises additional nucleotide sequence TTTTTT, TTTTTTT, TTTTT, or TTTT at the 3‘ end.
  • the PEgRNA comprises the appended nucleotides from die transcription template.
  • the PEgRNA further comprises an adenine at die 3’ end, for example, if the last nucleotide at the 3‘ end of the PBS is a thymine.
  • the PEgRNA further comprises nucleotide sequence UUUUUU, UUUUU, UUUUU, or UUUU at die 3’ end.
  • the PEgRNA further comprises one or more nucleotides at the 5’ end or the 3’ end in addition to spacer, PBS, and RTT sequences.
  • the Adenine is between the 3’ end of the PBS and the 5’ end of the secondary structure, or between the 3’ end of the PBS and the 5’ end of a linker if a linker is used to connect the secondary' structure and the PBS.
  • the modifications included in the selection of full length PEgRNAs included in Tables 1-6 are annotated in the third column of the tables.
  • a PEgRNA may also comprise optional modifiers, e.g., 3' end modifier region and/or an 5' end modifier region.
  • a PEgRNA comprises at least one nucleotide that is not part of a spacer, a gRNA core, or an extension arm.
  • the PEgRNA comprises secondary RNA structure, such as. but not limited to, aptamers, hairpins, stem/loops. toeloops, and/or RNA-binding protein recruitment domains (e.g., the MS2 aptamer which recruits and binds to the MS2 coat protein (MS2cp)).
  • a PEgRNA comprises a short stretch of uracil at the 5’ end or the 3’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprising a 3’ extension arm comprises a “UUU” sequence at the 3’ end of the extension arm.
  • a PEgRNA comprises a toeloop sequence at the 3’ end.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a 3’ extension arm and a toeloop sequence at the 3’ end of the extension arm.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a 5’ extension arm and a toeloop sequence at the 5’ end of the extension arm.
  • the PEgRNA comprises a toeloop element having the sequence 5’-GAAANNNNN-3’. wherein N is any nucleobase.
  • the secondary RNA structure is positioned within the spacer.
  • the secondary' structure is positioned within the extension arm. In some embodiments, the secondary structure is positioned within the gRNA core. In some embodiments, the secondary structure is positioned between the spacer and the gRNA core, between the gRNA core and the extension arm, or between the spacer and the extension ami. In some embodiments, the secondary' structure is positioned between the PBS and the editing template. In some embodiments the secondary structure is positioned at the 3’ end or at the 5’ end of the PEgRNA. In some embodiments, the PEgRNA comprises a transcriptional termination signal at the 3' end of the PEgRNA.
  • a PEgRNA comprises up to 50 nucleotides, up to 40 nucleotides, up to 30 nucleotides, up to 20 nucleotides, or up to 10 nucleotides of optional sequence modifiers at either or both of the 3’ and 5‘ ends of the PEgRNA.
  • the PEgRNA may comprise a chemical linker or a poly(N) linker or tail, where “N” can be any nucleobase.
  • the chemical linker may function to prevent reverse transcription of the gRNA core.
  • PEgRNA and 3’ PEgRNA sequence provided in Tables 1-6 may be chemically synthesized and may alternatively or additionally comprise one or more chemical modificationssuch as phosphorothioate (PS) bond(s), 2’-O-methylated (2’-0me) nucleotides, or a combination thereof.
  • a PEgRNA of this disclosure may include modified nucleotides, e.g., chemically modified DNA or RNA nucleobases, and may include one or more nucleobase analogs (e.g., modifications which might add functionality, such as temperature resilience).
  • PEgRNAs as described herein may be chemically modified.
  • chemical modifications can include modifications which introduce chemistries which differ from those seen in naturally occurring DNA or RNAs, for example, covalent modifications such as the introduction of modified nucleotides, (e.g., nucleotide analogs, or the inclusion of pendant groups which are not naturally found in DNA or RNA molecules).
  • the PEgRNAs provided in this disclosure may have undergone a chemical or biological modifications. Modifications may be made at any position within a PEgRNA, and may include modification to a nucleobase or to a phosphate backbone of the PEgRNA. In some embodiments, chemical modifications can be structure guided modifications. In some embodiments, a chemical modification is at the 5’ end and/or the 3’ end of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a chemical modification may be within the spacer, the extension arm, the editing template sequence, or the primer binding site of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a chemical modification may be within the spacer or the gRNA core of a PEgRNA.
  • a chemical modification may be within the 3’ most nucleotides of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a chemical modification may be within the 3 ’ most end of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a chemical modification may be within the 5’ most end of a PEgRNA. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. 8, 9, 10 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3 or more chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. 7, 8, 9, 10 or more contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3. 4, or 5 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1. 2, or 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2. or 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 3 contiguous chemically modified nucleotides at the 5’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1. 2, 3, 4, 5, or more chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3. 4, 5, or more contiguous chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end. In some embodiments, a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. or more chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end.
  • a PEgRNA comprises 1, 2, 3. 4. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. 10, 11, 12, 13. 14, 15, 16, 17. 18. 19, 20, 21, 22. 23, 24, 25, 26. T1. 28, 29, 30. 31. 32, 33, 34, 35 or more chemically modified nucleotides near the 3’ end. where the 3’ most nucleotide is not modified, and the 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16. 17, 18, 19. 20. 21, 22, 23, 24. 25, 26, 27, 28. 29. 30, 31, 32. 33. 34, 35 or more chemically modified nucleotides precede the 3’ most nucleotide in a 5’-to-3’ order.
  • a PEgRNA comprises one or more chemically modified nucleotides in the gRNA core.
  • the gRNA core of a PEgRNA may comprise one or more regions of a base paired lower stem, a base paired upper stem, where the lower stem and upper stem may be connected by a bulge comprising unpaired RNAs.
  • the gRNA core may further comprise a nexus distal from the spacer.
  • the gRNA core comprises one or more chemically modified nucleotides in the lower stem, upper stem, and/or the hairpin regions. In some embodiments, all of the nucleotides in the lower stem, upper stem, and/or the hairpin regions are chemically modified.
  • a chemical modification to a PEgRNA can comprise a 2'-O-thionocarbamate-protected nucleoside phosphoramidite, a 2'-O-methyl (M), a 2'-O-methyl 3'phosphorothioate (MS), or a 2 -0- methyl 3 'thioPACE (MSP), or any combination thereof.
  • M 2'-O-thionocarbamate-protected nucleoside phosphoramidite
  • M 2'-O-methyl
  • MS 2'-O-methyl 3'phosphorothioate
  • MSP 2 -0- methyl 3 'thioPACE
  • a chemically modified PEgRNA can comprise a '-O-methyl (M) RNA, a 2'-O-methyl 3'phosphorothioate (MS) RNA, a 2'-O-methyl 3 'thioPACE (MSP) RNA, a 2‘-F RNA, a phosphorothioate bond modification, any other chemical modifications known in the art, or any combination thereof.
  • a chemical modification may also include, for example, the incorporation of non-nucleotide linkages or modified nucleotides into the PEgRNA (e.g.. modifications to one or both of the 3’ and 5’ ends of a guide RNA molecule).
  • the 5’ PEgRNA and/or the 3’ PEgRNA comprises 3’ mN*mN*mN*N and 5’mN*mN*mN* modifications, where m indicates that the nucleotide contains a 2’-O-Me modification and a * indicates the presence of a phosphorothioate bond.
  • Any synthetically produced PEgRNA may additionally contain a series of four 3’ U nucleotides.
  • a polynucleotide encoding a component of a prime editing system may further comprise an element that is capable of modifying the intracellular half- life of the polynucleotide and/or modulating translational control.
  • the polynucleotide is a RNA, for example, an mRNA.
  • the half-life of the polynucleotide, e.g., the RNA may be increased.
  • the half-life of the polynucleotide, e.g., the RNA may be decreased.
  • the element may be capable of increasing the stability of the polynucleotide, e.g., the RNA.
  • the element may be capable of decreasing the stability of the polynucleotide, e.g., the RNA. In some embodiments, the element may be within the 3' UTR of the RNA. In some embodiments, the element may include a polyadenylation signal (PA). In some embodiments, the element may include a cap, e.g., an upstream mRNA or PEgRNA end. In some embodiments, the RNA may comprise no PA such that it is subject to quicker degradation in the cell after transcription.
  • PA polyadenylation signal
  • the RNA may comprise no PA such that it is subject to quicker degradation in the cell after transcription.
  • the element may include at least one AU-rich element (ARE).
  • the AREs may be bound by ARE binding proteins (ARE-BPs) in a manner that is dependent upon tissue type, cell type, timing, cellular localization, and environment.
  • the destabilizing element may promote RNA decay, affect RNA stability, or activate translation.
  • the ARE may comprise 50 to 150 nucleotides in length.
  • the ARE may comprise at least one copy of the sequence AUUUA.
  • at least one ARE may be added to the 3' UTR of the RNA.
  • the element may be a Woodchuck Hepatitis Virus Posttranscriptional Regulatory Element (WPRE).
  • WPRE Woodchuck Hepatitis Virus Posttranscriptional Regulatory Element
  • the element is a modified and/or truncated WPRE sequence that is capable of enhancing expression from the transcript.
  • the WPRE or equivalent may be added to the 3' UTR of the RNA.
  • the element may be selected from other RNA sequence motifs that are enriched in either fast- or slow-decaying transcripts.
  • the polynucleotide, e.g., a vector, encoding the PE or the PEgRNA may be self-destroyed via cleavage of a target sequence present on the polynucleotide, e.g., a vector. The cleavage may prevent continued transcription of a PE or a PEgRNA.
  • Polynucleotides encoding prime editing composition components can be DNA, RNA, or any combination thereof.
  • a polynucleotide encoding a prime editing composition component is an expression construct.
  • a polynucleotide encoding a prime editing composition component is a vector.
  • the vector is a DNA vector.
  • the vector is a plasmid.
  • the vector is a virus vector, e.g., a retroviral vector, adenoviral vector, lentiviral vector, herpesvirus vector, or an adeno-associated virus vector (AAV).
  • AAV adeno-associated virus vector
  • polynucleotides encoding polypeptide components of a prime editing composition are codon optimized by replacing at least one codon (e.g.. about or more than about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 50, or more codons) of the native sequence with codons that are more frequently or most frequently used in the genes of that host cell while maintaining the native amino acid sequence.
  • a polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide component of a prime editing composition are operably linked to one or more expression regulatory elements, for example, a promoter, a 3’ UTR, a 5’ UTR. or any combination thereof.
  • a polynucleotide encoding a prime editing composition component is a messenger RNA (mRNA).
  • mRNA messenger RNA
  • the mRNA comprises a Cap at the 5’ end and/or a poly A tail at the 3’ end.
  • compositions comprising any of the prime editing composition components, for example, prime editors, fusion proteins, polynucleotides encoding prime editor polypeptides, PEgRNAs, and/or prime editing complexes described herein.
  • prime editing composition components for example, prime editors, fusion proteins, polynucleotides encoding prime editor polypeptides, PEgRNAs, and/or prime editing complexes described herein.
  • composition refers to a composition formulated for pharmaceutical use.
  • the pharmaceutical composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
  • the pharmaceutical composition comprises additional agents, e.g, for specific delivery', increasing half-life, or other therapeutic compounds.
  • a pharmaceutically-acceptable carrier comprises any vehicle, such as a liquid or solid filler, diluent, excipient, manufacturing aid (e.g, lubricant, talc magnesium, calcium or zinc stearate, or steric acid), or solvent encapsulating material, involved in carrying or transporting the compound from one site (e.g, the delivery’ site) of the body, to another site (e.g, organ, tissue or portion of the body).
  • a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is “acceptable” in the sense of being compatible with the other ingredients of the formulation and not injurious to the tissue of the subject (e.g, physiologically compatible, sterile, physiologic pH. etc.)
  • Formulations of the pharmaceutical compositions described herein can be prepared by any method known or hereafter developed in the art of pharmacology. In general, such preparatory methods include the step of bringing the active ingredient(s) into association with an excipient and/or one or more other accessory ingredients, and then, if necessary and/or desirable, shaping and/or packaging the product into a desired single- or multi -dose unit.
  • compositions can additionally comprise a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient, which, as used herein, includes any and all solvents, dispersion media, diluents, or other liquid vehicles, dispersion or suspension aids, surface active agents, isotonic agents, thickening or emulsifying agents, preservatives, solid binders, lubricants and the like, as suited to the particular dosage form desired.
  • a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient includes any and all solvents, dispersion media, diluents, or other liquid vehicles, dispersion or suspension aids, surface active agents, isotonic agents, thickening or emulsifying agents, preservatives, solid binders, lubricants and the like, as suited to the particular dosage form desired.
  • compositions disclosed herein can be used to edit a target gene of interest by dual prime editing.
  • the dual prime editing method comprises contacting a target gene, e.g, aDMPK gene, with a first PEgRNA, a second PEgRNA and a prime editor (PE) polypeptide described herein.
  • the target gene is double stranded, and comprises two strands of DNA complementary to each other.
  • the contacting with the two PEgRNAs and the contacting with a prime editor are performed sequentially.
  • the contacting with a prime editor is performed after the contacting with the two PEgRNAs.
  • the contacting with the two PEgRNAs is performed after the contacting with a prime editor.
  • the contacting with the two PEgRNAs is performed simultaneously either prior to or after contacting with a prime editor. In some embodiments, the contacting with the two PEgRNAs is performed sequentially either prior to or after contacting with a prime editor. In some embodiments, the contacting with the two PEgRNAs, and the contacting with a prime editor are performed simultaneously. In some embodiments, the two PEgRNAs and the prime editor are associated in complexes prior to contacting a target gene.
  • contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of the first PEgRNA to a first strand of the target gene, e.g. , a DMPK gene. In some embodiments, contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of the second PEgRNA to a second strand of the target gene, e.g. , a DMPK gene. In some embodiments, contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of the first PEgRNA to a first strand of the target gene and binding of the second PEgRNA to a second strand of the target gene, e.g., a. DMPK gene.
  • contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of the first PEgRNA to a first search target sequence on the first strand of the target gene upon contacting with the first PEgRNA. In some embodiments, contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of the second PEgRNA to a second search target sequence on the second strand of the target gene upon contacting with the second PEgRNA. In some embodiments, contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of the first PEgRNA to a first search target sequence on the first strand of the target gene upon contacting with the first PEgRNA and binding of the second PEgRNA to a second search target sequence on the second strand of the target gene upon contacting with the second PEgRNA.
  • contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of a first spacer of the first PEgRNA to a first search target sequence on the first strand of the target gene upon said contacting of the first PEgRNA. In some embodiments, contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of a second spacer of the second PEgRNA to a second search target sequence on the second strand of the target gene upon said contacting of the second PEgRNA.
  • contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of a first spacer of the first PEgRNA to a first search target sequence on the first strand of the target gene upon said contacting of the first PEgRNA and binding of a second spacer of the second PEgRNA to a second search target sequence on the second strand of the target gene upon said contacting of the second PEgRNA.
  • contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in binding of the prime editor to the target gene, e.g, the target DMPK gene, upon the contacting of the PE composition with the target gene.
  • a DNA binding domain of a prime editor associates with either a first PEgRNA and/or a second PEgRNA.
  • a prime editor associated with a first PEgRNA binds the first strand of a target gene, e.g., a DMPK gene, as directed by the first PEgRNA.
  • a prime editor associated with a second PEgRNA binds the second strand of a target gene, e.g..
  • a prime editor associated with a first PEgRNA binds the first strand of a target gene as directed by the first PEgRNA
  • a prime editor associated with a second PEgRNA binds the second strand of the target gene as directed by the second PEgRNA.
  • a first PEgRNA directs a prime editor to generate a nick on the second strand of a target gene.
  • a second PEgRNA directs a prime editor to generate a nick on the first strand of a target gene.
  • a first PEgRNA directs a prime editor to generate a first nick on the second strand of a target gene
  • a second PEgRNA directs a prime editor to generate a second nick on the first strand of a target gene, thereby generating an inter-nick duplex (IND) between the position of the first nick and the position of the second nick on the target gene.
  • the DNA binding domain of the prime editor is a Cas domain.
  • the DNA binding domain of the prime editor is a Cas9.
  • the DNA binding domain of the prime editor is a Cas9 nickase.
  • contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition results in hybridization of the PEgRNA (e.g., the first PEgRNA and/or the second PEgRNA) with the 3’ end of the nicked single-stranded DNA, thereby priming DNA polymerization by a DNA polymerase domain of the prime editor.
  • the free 3’ end of the single-stranded DNA generated at the nick site hybridizes to a primer binding site sequence (PBS) of the contacted PEgRNA. thereby priming DNA polymerization.
  • PBS primer binding site sequence
  • the DNA polymerization is reverse transcription catalyzed by a reverse transcriptase domain of the prime editor.
  • the method comprises contacting the target gene with a DNA polymerase, e.g, a reverse transcriptase, as a part of a prime editor fusion protein or prime editing complex (in cis), or as a separate protein (in trans).
  • a DNA polymerase e.g, a reverse transcriptase
  • contacting the target gene with the prime editing composition generates an overlap duplex (OD) or replacement duplex (RD) that replaces the IND.
  • the OD or RD comprises one or more intended nucleotide edits compared to the endogenous sequence of the target gene, e.g., &DMPK gene.
  • the intended nucleotide edits are incorporated in the target gene by replacement of the IND by the OD or RD.
  • the intended nucleotide edits are incorporated in the target gene by excision of the IND and DNA repair.
  • excision of the 5’ single stranded DNA of the edit strand generated at the nick site is by a flap endonuclease.
  • the flap nuclease is FEN1.
  • the method further comprises contacting the target gene with a flap endonuclease.
  • the flap endonuclease is provided as a part of a prime editor fusion protein. In some embodiments, the flap endonuclease is provided in trans.
  • the target gene e.g.. aDMPK gene
  • the target gene is in a cell. Accordingly, also provided herein are methods of modifying a cell.
  • the prime editing method comprises introducing a first PEgRNA, a second PEgRNA, and a prime editor into the cell that has the target gene.
  • the prime editing method comprises introducing into the cell that has the target gene with a prime editing composition comprising a first PEgRNA, a second PEgRNA, and a prime editor polypeptide.
  • the first PEgRNA, the second PEgRNA, and the prime editor poly peptides form complexes prior to the introduction into the cell.
  • the first PEgRNA, the second PEgRNA, and the prime editor polypeptides form complexes after the introduction into the cell.
  • the prime editors, PEgRNAs and prime editing complexes may be introduced into the cell by any delivery' approaches described herein or any delivery approach known in the art, including ribonucleoprotein (RNPs), lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), viral vectors, non-viral vectors, mRNA delivery, and physical techniques such as cell membrane disruption by a microfluidics device.
  • RNPs ribonucleoprotein
  • LNPs lipid nanoparticles
  • viral vectors lipid nanoparticles
  • non-viral vectors non-viral vectors
  • mRNA delivery mRNA delivery
  • the prime editors, PEgRNAs, and prime editing complexes may be introduced into the cell simultaneously or sequentially.
  • the prime editing method comprises introducing into the cell a first PEgRNA and a second PEgRNA, or polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA, and a prime editor polynucleotide encoding a prime editor polypeptide.
  • the method comprises introducing the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA or the polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA, and the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide into the cell simultaneously.
  • the method comprises introducing the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA or the polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA, and the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide into the cell sequentially. In some embodiments, the method comprises introducing the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide into the cell before introduction of the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA or the polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA.
  • the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide is introduced into and expressed in the cell before introduction of the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA or the polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA into the cell. In some embodiments, the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide is introduced into the cell after the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA or the polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA are introduced into the cell.
  • the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide, the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA or the polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA may be introduced into the cell by any delivery approaches described herein or any delivery approach known in the art, for example, by RNPs, LNPs, viral vectors, non- viral vectors, mRNA delivery, and physical delivery.
  • the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide and the polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA integrate into the genome of the cell after being introduced into the cell.
  • the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide and the polynucleotides encoding the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA are introduced into the cell for transient expression. Accordingly, also provided herein are cells modified by prime editing.
  • the cell is a prokaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a eukaryotic cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a mammalian cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a non-human primate cell, bovine cell, porcine cell, rodent or mouse cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a human cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a primary cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a human primary cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a progenitor cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a human progenitor cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a primary’ muscle cell.
  • the cell is a human muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a primary human muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a primary human muscle cell derived from an induced human pluripotent stem cell (iPSC). In some embodiments, the cell is a neuron. In some embodiments, the cell is a neuron from basal ganglia. In some embodiments, the cell is a neuron from basal ganglia of a subject. In some embodiments, the cell is a fibroblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a human fibroblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a myogenic cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a myoblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a human myogenic cell.
  • iPSC induced human pluripotent stem cell
  • the cell is a human myoblast. In some embodiments, the cell is a cardiac muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a smooth muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a myosatellite cell (also referred to as a satellite cell). In some embodiments, the cell is a human myosatellite cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a differentiated muscle cell. In some embodiments, the cell is a skeletal muscle cell. In some embodiments, the skeletal muscle cell is differentiated from an iPSC, ESC or myosatellite cell.
  • the target gene edited by prime editing is in a chromosome of the cell.
  • the intended nucleotide edits incorporate in the chromosome of the cell and are inheritable by progeny cells.
  • the intended nucleotide edits introduced to the cell by the prime editing compositions and methods are such that the cell and progeny of the cell also include the intended nucleotide edits.
  • the cell is autologous, allogeneic, or xenogeneic to a subject.
  • the cell is from or derived from a subject.
  • the cell is from or derived from a human subject.
  • the cell is introduced back into the subject, e.g, a human subject, after incorporation of the intended nucleotide edits by prime editing.
  • the method provided herein comprises introducing the prime editor polypeptide or the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide, and the PEgRNAs (e.g.. the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA) or the polynucleotides encoding the PEgRNAs, into a plurality' or a population of cells that comprise the target gene.
  • the population of cells is of the same cell type.
  • the population of cells is of the same tissue or organ.
  • the population of cells is heterogeneous.
  • the population of cells is homogeneous.
  • the population of cells is from a single tissue or organ, and the cells are heterogeneous.
  • the introduction into the population of cells is ex vivo.
  • the introduction into the population of cells is in vivo, e.g., into a human subject.
  • the target gene is in a genome of each cell of the population.
  • introduction of the prime editor polypeptide or the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide, and the PEgRNAs (e.g., the first PEgRNA and the second PEgRNA) or the polynucleotides encoding the PEgRNAs results in incorporation of one or more intended nucleotide edits in the target gene in at least one of the cells in the population of cells.
  • introduction of the prime editor polypeptide or the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide, and the PEgRNAs or the polynucleotides encoding the PEgRNAs results in incorporation of the one or more intended nucleotide edits in the target gene in a plurality of the population of cells. In some embodiments, introduction of the prime editor polypeptide or the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide, and the PEgRNAs or the polynucleotide encoding the PEgRNAs, results in incorporation of the one or more intended nucleotide edits in the target gene in each cell of the population of cells.
  • introduction of the prime editor polypeptide or the polynucleotide encoding the prime editor polypeptide, and the PEgRNAs or the polynucleotides encoding the PEgRNAs results in incorporation of the one or more intended nucleotide edits in the target gene in sufficient number of cells such that the disease or disorder is treated, prevented or ameliorated.
  • editing efficiency of the prime editing compositions and method described herein can be measured by calculating the percentage of edited target genes in a population of cells introduced with the prime editing composition.
  • the percentage of edited target genes can be assessed in any method known in the art. for example, with a next generation sequencing platform (e.g. Miseq) and suitable primers, by the percentage of edited reads over total sequenced reads.
  • the editing efficiency is determined after 1 hour, 2 hours, 6 hours. 12 hours, 24 hours, 36 hours, 48 hours, 3 days, 4 days, 5 days, 7 days, 10 days, or 14 days of exposing a target gene (e.g. a llMPK gene within the genome of a cell) to a prime editing composition.
  • the population of cells introduced with the prime editing composition is ex vivo.
  • the population of cells introduced with the prime editing composition is in vitro.
  • the population of cells introduced with the prime editing composition is in vivo.
  • the dual prime editing compositions and methods disclosed herein have an editing efficiency of at least about 1%, at least about 5%. at least about 10%. at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least about 99% .
  • the prime editing methods disclosed herein have an editing efficiency of at least 25% .
  • the prime editing methods disclosed herein have an editing efficiency of at least 30% .
  • the prime editing methods disclosed herein have an editing efficiency of at least 35% .
  • the prime editing methods disclosed herein have an editing efficiency of at least 45% .
  • the prime editing methods disclosed herein have an editing efficiency of at least 50% .
  • the dual prime editing compositions and methods disclosed herein have an editing efficiency of at least about 1%, at least about 5%, at least about 7.5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%. at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least about 99% of editing a primary cell .
  • the dual prime editing compositions and methods disclosed herein have an editing efficiency of at least about 5%, at least about 7.5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least about 99% of editing a muscle cell relative to a corresponding control muscle cell.
  • the muscle cell is a human muscle cell.
  • the dual prime editing compositions and methods provided herein are capable of incorporating one or more intended nucleotide edits without generating a significant proportion of indels.
  • the term “indel(s)”, as used herein, refers to the insertion or deletion of a nucleotide base within a polynucleotide, for example, a target gene. Such insertions or deletions can lead to frame shift mutations within a coding region of a gene.
  • Indel frequency of editing can be calculated by methods known in the art. In some embodiments, indel frequency can be calculated based on sequence alignment such as the CRISPResso 2 algorithm as described in Clement et al., Nat. Biotechnol.
  • the methods disclosed herein can have an indel frequency of less than 20%, less than 10%, less than 9%, less than 8%, less than 7%, less than 6%, less than 5%, less than 4%, less than 3%, less than 2%, less than 1.5%, or less than 1%.
  • any number of indels is determined after at least 1 hour, at least 2 hours, at least 6 hours, at least 12 hours, at least 24 hours, at least 36 hours, at least 48 hours, at least 3 days, at least 4 days, at least 5 days, at least 7 days, at least 10 days, or at least 14 days of exposing a target gene (e.g., aDMPK gene within the genome of a cell) to a prime editing composition.
  • a target gene e.g., aDMPK gene within the genome of a cell

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Abstract

La présente invention concerne des procédés de réécriture par matrice d'ARN et des compositions pour le traitement de troubles génétiques tels que la dystrophie myotonique.
PCT/US2024/014947 2023-02-08 2024-02-08 Compositions d'édition génomique et méthodes de traitement de la dystrophie myotonique Ceased WO2024168116A1 (fr)

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