A new gene-editing technique may be safer and more reliable than CRISPR-Cas9, according to a recent study. Eyes from recently deceased organ donors may help scientists better understand diseases that cause blindness. Does our desire to attract romantic partners drive us to develop athletic and artistic ability?

Join geneticist Kevin Folta and GLP contributor Cameron English on episode 188 of Science Facts and Fallacies as they break down these latest news stories:

* New reversible gene-editing technique may be safer and more reliable than standard CRISPR

CRISPR-Cas13 is the newest pair of "molecular scissors" researchers are using to edit the genetic material of plants, animals and microorganisms. Unlike Cas9, the Cas13 enzyme cuts RNA, the intermediate between DNA and proteins in the central dogma of molecular biology. Targeting transient RNA molecules instead of DNA could make the Cas13 technique a little safer, though it's not as precise as CRISPR-Cas9. It may therefore be premature to say the newer technique is an improvement on existing gene-editing methods.

* The chemistry of vision: Reviving eyes from organ donors offers hope for blindness cures

Are you willing to donate your eyes to science? Some organ donors are, and their contributions may help us pin down the causes of blindness. A team of researchers has devised a way to preserve human eyes once they are taken from donors, which will keep them functional long enough for scientists to investigate how different conditions can induce blindness. This development could prove to be an important step forward for ophthalmology, since much of the field's existing research is performed on rodents.

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* Do sex and romance drive our artistic and athletic abilities?

Charles Darwin posited that humans develop athletic and artistic abilities to improve our chances of attracting desirable romantic partners. A recent study conducted by psychologists in Brazil lends some interesting support to Darwin's conclusion. The survey showed that women and men use their talents to attract attention from the opposite sex, though they use these skills differently. Men tend to use their ability to compete with other men, while women use their skills as "ornaments" to attract mates.

Kevin M. Folta is a professor, keynote speaker and podcast host. Follow Professor Folta on Twitter