Scientists have unveiled a new version of the famous gene editing tool CRISPR, which can temporarily “pause” a specific gene instead of permanently turning it off. The original CRISPR system recognizes a specific DNA sequence and then cuts out that part of the DNA strand, permanently turning off the gene. Unfortunately, this technique involves risks, such as “off-target” cuts where the wrong genes are cut. Researchers at Vilnius University in Lithuania have now developed a new, more versatile genetic tool, the Type IV-A CRISPR system. A study published on October 29 in the journal Nature Communications describes how the system switches off genes in an unpredictable way and gives researchers more control over gene activity.