Biomedical Communications Technologies, 2023

3D Editorial Journal Cover

CRISPR, a groundbreaking gene-editing tool, has garnered widespread attention for its potential in precise gene modifications. Utilizing guide RNA (gRNA) to direct CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) to target DNA sequences, the technology holds significant promise in treating inherited genetic diseases and mutation-related conditions like cancer.

I designed a journal cover to captivate the interest of the educated public, coinciding with the impending decision on the first CRISPR gene therapy approval. The artwork portrays the inner workings of a cell and its nucleus, functioning as a DNA repair shop, where the gRNA scans for defects and the Cas laser makes precise cuts under the watchful eye of a toy doctor.

Client

Shehryar Saharan (Biomedical Communications Professor, University of Toronto)

Role

Research, 3D Modelling, Rendering, Compositing

Tools

Autodesk Maya
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop

Rough Sketches

After determining the topic of the journal cover, I made several rough sketches, combined by a search for a metaphor and analogy of the precise functionality of the CRISPR-Cas system on DNA strands. I chose the most complex of all compositions in order to practice my hard surface modeling skills in Autodesk Maya.

Comprehensive Sketch

Following feedback from peers and Professor Saharan, I further refined the selected option, considering the placement of the title and text on the cover. Subsequently, I began the process of 3D modeling.

Building Assets

The primary objective was to design a 3D model of a toy DNA repair shop. I created some models using freely available blueprints, while others were made in Adobe Illustrator and then given volume in Autodesk Maya. Initially, I intended to use gold as the material for the DNA, likening it to a chain necklace. However, due to the reflective nature of gold, it blended into the background. To draw attention back to the DNA and seamlessly integrate it into the composition, I opted for a matte plastic material.

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References:

Agur, A. M., & Dalley, A. F. (2017). Grant's Atlas of Anatomy (14th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
Agur, A. M., & Dalley, A. F. (2019). Moore's Essential Clinical Anatomy (6th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.
Crossman, A. R., & Neary, D. (2018). Neuroanatomy: An Illustrated Colour Text (6th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.
Nieuwenhuys, R., Voogd, J., & Van Huijzen, C. (2008). The Human Central Nervous System (4th ed.). Springer Science & Business Media.
Rohen, J. W., Yokochi, C., & Lütjen-Drecoll, E. (2016). Anatomy: A Photographic Atlas (8th ed.). Wolters Kluwer.

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