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CRISPR Library Tools |
CRISPR screening libraries for functional genomics
CRISPR screening allows you to perform focused loss-of-function analyses on relevant gene sets or custom collections, or unbiased genome-wide CRISPR screens with confidence.
Pooled and arrayed lentiviral CRISPR libraries for discovery and validation
CRISPR screening libraries are collections of guide RNAs (gRNAs) used to systematically perturb genes across a cell population to understand gene function, identify drug targets, and interrogate biological pathways. These libraries can be delivered using lentiviral vectors, enabling stable genome editing across a wide range of cell types.
Two primary formats are used depending on your infrastructure and experimental methods:
Arrayed CRISPR libraries
Up to 4 gRNAs per genes separated by well for high-throughput discovery screens in 96- or 384-well format.
Pooled CRISPR libraries
Thousands of gene-targeting gRNAs (up to 4 gRNAs per gene) delivered in a single reagent for discovery screens, without the need for high-throughput infrastructure.
Key differences in arrayed vs pooled CRISPR libraries
| Feature | Arrayed libraries | Pooled libraries |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Multi-well plates, up to 4 gRNAs per well | Single tube, up to four gRNAs per gene, thousands of genes per tube |
| Throughput | Genome-scale, Gene family sets, Custom gene sets | Genome-scale, Gene family sets |
| Infrastructure | Often requires automated liquid handlers | Standard cell culture lab workflows |
| Readout | Live/dead assays, Phenotypic assays, high-content imaging, plate reader | Next-generation sequencing (NGS), live/dead assays |
LentiArray and LentiPool gRNA libraries for CRISPR screening
Expand your CRISPR screening capabilities with lentiviral gRNA libraries. Lentiviral libraries make it easy to perform CRISPR gene edits for hundreds of genes at once. Award-winning Invitrogen LentiArray and LentiPool CRISPR libraries employ advanced gRNA designs for maximum knockout efficiency without sacrificing specificity.
CRISPR libraries are constructed using our proprietary gRNA design algorithm, which incorporates the latest research and our extensive in-house experience. The gRNA designs are selected for maximum knockout efficiency without compromising specificity. LentiPool v3 gRNA designs add additional scoring based on Rule Set 31 on-target scores and aggregate CFD2 off-target scores. For each gene target, we include up to four high-quality gRNAs to help ensure that the lentiviral library will provide high-efficiency knockout of target genes across a wide array of cell types.
LentiArray CRISPR libraries for high-throughput arrayed CRISPR screening
LentiArray CRISPR libraries are delivered in an arrayed format in 96-well plates, compatible with high-throughput screening platforms. These lentiviral libraries help provide a flexible system that does not impose limitations on your functional genomics assay design or research goals.
Data: LentiArray CRISPR libraries achieve high gene editing efficiency for most targeted genes
Figure 1. LentiArray CRISPR Library gRNAs achieve high editing efficiencies for a large percentage of targeted genes.(A) HT1080 cells stably expressing Cas9 were transduced with arrayed LentiArray gRNA lentiviral particles against a subset of genes found in the LentiArray Human Cancer Biology CRISPR Library. NGS analysis showed that 87% of the targeted genes were knocked out at >50% efficiency (red line) and 77% at >70% efficiency (purple line). (B) U87MG and A431 cells stably expressing Cas9 were transduced with individual lentiviral gRNAs, then harvested for western blot analysis using specific antibodies against corresponding target genes. The absence of detectable AKT, PIK3R1, and EGFR proteins demonstrates efficient protein knockout by this method.
LentiPool CRISPR libraries for affordable screening
LentiPool CRISPR Libraries empower CRISPR-Cas9 screening without the need for high-throughput infrastructure. These high-quality pooled lentiviral libraries cover the same gene targets as our LentiArray libraries and are delivered as ready-to-use high-titer (>5 x 108 TU/mL) lentivirus particles for a gene knockout screen with maximum impact.
The LentiPool CRISPR libraries include lentiviruses that encode up to four gRNAs for each targeted gene, pooled together in one tube. All analysis can be performed using next-generation sequencing (NGS). Our LentiPool libraries are quality controlled by NGS to confirm gRNA and gene representation.
- Functionally validated, high-titer lentivirus
Libraries are quantified using functional titer—not p24—so transduction performance reflects real editing activity. This reduces variability and minimizes the need for re-optimization. - Uniform gRNA representation
Tight guide distribution ensures consistent screening pressure across targets, improving hit identification and reducing false negatives. - Pooled screening without automation
Run high-quality CRISPR screens using standard lab workflows. No robotics or specialized infrastructure required, lowering the barrier to entry for functional genomics. - Smaller-sized formats, scalable for what you need
Smaller aliquots deliver the coverage you need—without wasted virus or budget while maintaining full representation. - Seamless transition from discovery to validation
Move directly from pooled screening to arrayed follow-up using LentiArray CRISPR libraries, preserving consistency and confidence in your results.
Pooled CRISPR library screening workflow
 | Generation of Cas9 expressing cells:
|
 | Transduction with pooled sgRNA library
|
 | Primary screening by positive or negative selection:
|
 | Hit identification by NGSHigh-throughput sequencing analysis of enriched [positive selection (+)] or depleted [negative selection (–)] sgRNA from genomic DNA |
Figure 2.Workflow for lentiviral pooled screening. A Cas9-expressing stable cell line is generated with LentiArray Lentiviral Cas9 Nuclease using selection for blasticidin resistance. These Cas9-expressing cells are then transduced with the LentiPool sgRNA library at the appropriate MOI and undergo selection for puromycin resistance. The transduced population then undergoes selective pressure or treatment like a drug or chemical perturbant. Genomic DNA is isolated and the sgRNA inserts are amplified by PCR. Finally, the amplicons then are sequenced to determine which genes were enriched/depleted in response to the treatment.
Positive, negative, and delivery controls for CRISPR screening
High-quality controls play an integral role in the successful development and performance of high-throughput screens. Don't forget to order controls to help you optimize delivery conditions, maximize editing efficiency, and establish hit selection criteria.
Specific to LentiArray CRISPR libraries, we offer a set of negative or positive delivery control options that can come with or without a GFP-expressing construct. The GFP marker can help provide a visual readout to aid in the rapid optimization of viral delivery conditions.
Order LentiArray and LentiPool CRISPR libraries
These CRISPR libraries include up to four gRNAs per gene target. For LentiArray CRISPR libraries, this includes one gene per well with 100 μL (2 x 50 μL) of ready-to-use lentiviral particles per gene target and an average titer of 1 x 108 TU/mL. For LentiPool CRISPR libraries, this includes 200 μL (4 x 50 μL) for Gene Family sets, and 300 μL (6 x 50 μL) for Druggable and Whole Genome.
Predefined CRISPR libraries are available, ranging from focused gene sets to whole-genome libraries. Our druggable genome CRISPR library is designed for identifying potential therapeutic targets involved in the development and progression of diseases. Customizable LentiArray CRISPR libraries are available for your specific gene list or follow-up validation studies.
The gene targets in each CRISPR library were selected using up-to-date genome databases, including the NCBI RefSeq database, and were cross-referenced to the Gene Ontology Consortium database and/or the HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC). The gRNA designs for each target were then created using a proprietary design algorithm developed by the scientists at Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Available CRISPR Cas9 screening libraries
| CRISPR library and description | Gene count* | gRNA count* | LentiArray Cat. No. | LentiPool Cat. No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Genome CRISPR Library Designed for genome-wide CRISPR screens to identify novel targets in biological pathways and disease development. | 18,392 | 73,568 | A31949 | A42704 |
| Druggable Genome CRISPR Library Designed for identification of potential therapeutic targets involved in the development and progression of disease. | 10,132 | 40,512 | Inquire | A42703 |
| Kinase CRISPR Library With kinases involved in many signaling cascades and their dysregulation linked to disease development, kinases are a key class of drug targets. Additional gene targets were selected from the KinBase database and other resources. | 822 | 3,288 | A42234 | A42685 |
| GPCR CRISPR Library As regulators of many physiological and disease processes, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have emerged as one of the most druggable gene classes, with nearly 30% of FDA-approved drugs targeting them. | 446 | 1,784 | A42282 | A42687 |
| Cancer Biology CRISPR Library Targets some of the most common genes involved in cancer development. Additional gene targets were select from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). | 510 | 2,040 | A42268 | A42689 |
| Epigenetics CRISPR Library Epigenetic regulation of gene expression plays a central role in normal development and is being recognized as a contributing factor to the development of many diseases. | 396 | 1,548 | A42269 | A42694 |
| Ubiquitin CRISPR Library The ubiquitin system is integral to maintaining cellular homeostasis by regulating protein turnover, and its dysregulation is linked to cancer, viral infection, and neurodegenerative, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. | 943 | 3,722 | A42270 | A42702 |
| Cell Cycle CRISPR Library Cell cycle regulators are important to normal development as well as cancer and cardiovascular, inflammatory, and neurodegenerative diseases. Targets include cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), crucial for cell cycle progression; cell cycle progression regulators such as CIP/KIP family proteins and INK4 cell cycle inhibitors; proteins in the retinoblastoma family; and DNA replication factors such as the cell division cycle proteins (CDCs). | 1,444 | 5,776 | A42271 | A42700 |
| Membrane Trafficking CRISPR Library Membrane trafficking proteins are involved in neurotransmitter and endocrine release, phagocytosis, endocytosis, autophagy, and other processes. | 141 | 564 | A42272 | A42697 |
| Transcription Factor CRISPR Library Transcription factors are key regulators of gene expression. | 1,817 | 7,724 | A42273 | A42699 |
| Nuclear Hormone Receptors CRISPR Library Nuclear hormone receptors are a family of transcription factors that are activated by lipid-soluble ligands such as steroid hormones, thyroid hormone, vitamin D, and retinoic acid, and regulate metabolism, development, proliferation, reproduction, and other biological processes. | 47 | 188 | A42274 | A42693 |
| Apoptosis CRISPR Library Apoptosis is a tightly regulated process that is essential for maintaining homeostasis in multicellular organisms. Inhibition of apoptosis can result in cancer, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, and viral infection, while overactivation can lead to atrophy, tissue damage, and neurodegenerative disease. | 904 | 3,616 | A42275 | A42701 |
| Drug Transporter CRISPR Library Transporter proteins play a key role in pharmacology, affecting how molecules are moved across cellular membranes. | 98 | 392 | A42276 | A42690 |
| Ion Channel CRISPR Library Ion channels are integral membrane proteins that establish the electrochemical gradient that leads to both resting membrane potential and the formation of action potentials. These are crucial to nerve conduction, heart and muscle contraction, pancreatic insulin release, T cell activation, and other processes. | 328 | 1,312 | A42277 | A42695 |
| Cell Surface Protein CRISPR Library The broad array of cell surface proteins allows cells to receive information from and react to their environment. | 778 | 3,112 | A42278 | A42698 |
| Protease CRISPR Library Besides degrading proteins, proteases are also integral signaling molecules, Dysregulation of protease signaling pathways is implicated in cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, cancer, and inflammatory disease. | 475 | 1,900 | A42279 | A42692 |
| Tumor Suppressor CRISPR Library Tumor suppressors are negative regulators of cell cycle progression, and loss or mutation of tumor suppressor genes is often involved in cancer. Additional targets were selected from the Tumor Suppressor Gene Database (TSGene). | 716 | 2,864 | A42280 | A42691 |
| DNA Damage Response CRISPR Library DNA surveillance proteins continuously monitor DNA integrity and activate cell cycle checkpoints and DNA repair pathways in response to DNA damage. | 561 | 2,244 | A42281 | A42696 |
| Phosphatase CRISPR Library Reversible phosphorylation is central in regulating signal transduction pathways. Phosphatases dephosphorylate their target proteins, are integral to regulation of signaling pathways, and are potential therapeutic targets. | 288 | 1,152 | A42267 | A42688 |
| Custom CRISPR Library | Custom | Custom | Inquire | Not available |
*Gene count and gRNA count subject to change
FAQs
A pooled CRISPR library is a collection of thousands of gRNAs delivered simultaneously to a population of cells, enabling genome-wide or pathway-focused screening in a single experiment.
An arrayed CRISPR library is a collection of individual CRISPR reagents separated into distinct wells, where each perturbation is applied and measured independently rather than pooled together.
Lentiviral delivery enables stable integration of gRNAs, making it ideal for long-term screening and hard-to-transfect cell types.
All libraries include up to 4 gRNAs per gene to ensure robust knockout and reduce false negatives.
For pooled CRISPR libraries, no, these screens can be performed using standard lab workflows without robotics or high-throughput systems. For arrayed CRISPR libraries, automated liquid handling can be useful, especially for larger libraries.
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