// Oct 2026
How Can Reverse Transcriptase Editing Expand Precision Gene Editing Options?
Reverse transcriptase (RT) editing can expand precision gene editing by enabling targeted rewriting of DNA sequences using a specialized guide RNA, without relying on DNA double-strand breaks. This gives therapeutic developers a more versatile way to make precise DNA changes when target access, editing potency, or guide RNA performance limits other editing approaches.
At ElevateBio, we are developing RT editing systems by combining diverse CRISPR-associated RNA-guided nucleases, proprietary RTs, engineered guide RNAs, and proprietary LNPs for delivery. The goal is to help partners match the right editing system to the needs of a specific therapeutic target.
Diverse Enzyme Mining Creates Better Starting Points
Effective RT editing depends on both the targeting nuclease and the RTs. Instead of relying on a narrow set of standard tools, we mined a bioinformatic database of more than 10 billion natural proteins and identified a diverse collection of CRISPR-associated RNA-guided nucleases and proprietary RT enzymes.
That breadth matters for partners because different targets require different editing properties. A broader enzyme collection can increase target-site access, expand PAM compatibility, and create more opportunities to optimize potency and specificity for a program’s mutation or locus of interest.
RT Editing Uses the Guide as Both Address and Template
RT editing creates a targeted single-strand break and replaces the existing DNA sequence with new sequence encoded by the guide RNA. In this system, the guide RNA helps direct the editor to the genomic site and carries the template for the intended edit.
This architecture creates flexibility. Unlike approaches limited to specific base conversions, RT editing can support precise sequence rewriting across a broader range of edit types. That versatility makes it especially relevant for diseases where the desired correction cannot be addressed efficiently with a standard nuclease or base editor.
Engineering Improves Potency and Performance
RT editing performance depends on more than the initial enzyme. Both the RT editor and guide RNA can be engineered to improve activity.
Data (see technical poster) show that engineering proprietary RT editors increased RT editing at the Hao1 target from less than 0.1% to 25% in primary murine hepatocytes. Guide engineering achieved a greater than two-fold increase in RT editing efficiency, with more than 70% precise RT editing observed in primary murine hepatocytes. In vivo, ElevateBio achieved 28.4% precise RT editing using LNP delivery, which resulted in the reduction of the relevant biomarker to therapeutic levels.
RT Editing Gives Partners a More Flexible Path to Precise Sequence Rewriting
RT editing is not simply another editing modality. It expands the set of tools available for programs that require precise DNA rewriting, broader target access, and iterative optimization of both protein and guide components.
For partners, the value is practical: ElevateBio can help identify, engineer, and optimize RT editing systems around a specific therapeutic target, rather than forcing the target to fit a limited editing toolset.
Drew Kelso
Senior Manager, Business Development Gene Editing Services
Drew Kelso is a Senior Manager of Business Development at ElevateBio, where he identifies and pursues potential partners to develop advanced therapies.
Since joining ElevateBio in 2021, Drew has progressed from bench scientist to business development leader. He began in R&D by characterizing and developing multiple gene editing systems and modalities, then advanced to scientific leadership roles where he directed partnership programs advancing therapeutic systems toward the clinic. In these roles, he oversaw research strategy and execution, advanced a novel genome-editing modality to preclinical validation. Now in business development, he leverages his deep scientific expertise to identify and evaluate partnership opportunities.
Prior to ElevateBio, Drew spent two years as a scientist at Intellia Therapeutics, where he applied biochemical and molecular techniques to investigate genome editing strategies and characterized gene knockout and integration in primary cells, generating insights that directly informed therapeutic development decisions.
Drew earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Clemson University, and M.S. in Biotechnology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and a B.S. in Biology at the University of Montevallo.
Outside of work, Drew enjoys running, hiking, playing games and sports, and, most importantly, spending time with family.
