Here we explain in detail how to use a human codon–optimized, nuclear localization sequence-flanked wild-type (WT) Cas9 nuclease or mutant Cas9 nickase to facilitate eukaryotic gene editing. We describe considerations for designing the 20-nt guide sequence, protocols for rapid construction and functional validation of sgRNAs and finally the use of the Cas9 nuclease to mediate both NHEJ- and HDR-based genome modifications in human embryonic kidney (HEK 293FT) and human stem cell (HUES9) lines (Fig. 3). The Cas9 system can similarly be applied to other cell types and organisms, including humans22,23,25, mice22,41,45, zebrafish45, Drosophila46 and Caenorhabditis elegans47.
