The controversial CRISPR gene editing tool is lauded and feared at the same time. A group of scientists have discovered a way to switch it off to stop further effects.

In recent years, the CRISPR editing breakthrough has become a hot topic for science papers and researchers as it provides the possibility to "cut and paste" portions of genes to to "edit" out diseases from patients, or to prevent genetic disorders from surfacing in a particular lineage.

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For example, if a person's family line is believed to be prone to diabetes, it is possible for the CRISPR gene editing to "cut" the genes which could lead to such kind of disease. In November 2016, the CRISPR technology was tested in humans.

However, there are fears that the CRISPR could have side effects. If the technology would be used regularly on humans, there should be a "switch-off" option to stop furthering its effects.

However, the "switch-off" option does not mean that the effects will be reversed. However, it is possible to stop CRISPR from making edits on the human gene whenever it has to be done.

Scientists discovered a series of anti-CRISPR proteins which disables the gene editing tool from making further changes to the genes. This is also a handy solution if by any chance there is a mistake in the gene editing process, Science Alert reported.

Aside from preventing further changes, the switch off tool for CRISPR can be used to make more accurate gene editing in the future.