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.
Shehryar Saharan (Biomedical Communications Professor, University of Toronto)
Research, 3D Modelling, Rendering, Compositing
Autodesk Maya
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
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.
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.
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.
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.