OpenCRISPR-1, an AI-designed Cas9-like nuclease, tests whether generative protein design can improve genome editing without sacrificing activity. In human cells, it largely preserved Cas9-level on-target editing across tested loci while reducing measured off-target mutations. The enzyme also worked across different guide formats and could be adapted into prime editors with improved specificity profiles. (https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13073-026-01682-2)