Researchers have discovered the structure and function of Cas12a2, a type of CRISPR immune system, which has been found to elicit abortive infection through RNA-triggered destruction of double-stranded DNA. The enzyme's activity has been described as indiscriminate, suggesting it may target a wide range of cells. Studies on Cas12a2 have been published, including in the journal Nature, and may have potential applications in fields such as cancer treatment.