Activating genes in their endogenous genomic context is essential for
studying gene regulation and cell identity, but was long technically
limited. CRISPR-based gene activation (CRISPRa) enables programmable
transcriptional control at native loci. DNA-free CRISPRa
ribonucleo-proteins (dRNPs) allow transient, multiplexed gene activation
without genomic modification and enable controlled modulation of
cellular states, with potential relevance for future translational
applications.