Researchers from the Biological Centre of the Czech Academy of Science are working to modify hops genes in an effort to assist the human body to combat cancer, inflammation and bacteria. To test their hypothesis, researchers used the CRISP technology to target an enzyme gene which regulates the production of leaf dyes. Next on their agenda is changing genes that are responsible for the production of the bitter acids that focus on prenylated flavonoids, a group of chemical compounds that act against cancer, bacteria and inflammation. These same gene modifications will also improve the quality of beer during brewing process.
