Apparently, edits with this new tool (CRISPR-Cas13) can be safer as they don't result in permanent changes to your genetic makeup like other DNA-based CRISPR techniques can. This system, called REPAIR, works more efficiently in human cells, as well. RNA is implicated in various diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), myotonic dystrophy and Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS), so fixing it could show positive results in treating these types of disorders.

"REPAIR presents a promising RNA editing platform with broad applicability for research, therapeutics, and biotechnology," wrote the researchers.