Recent advances in CRISPR technologies for genome editing

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Biotechnology

Background:

• The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) system has emerged as a transformative technology in genome editing.
• CRISPR/Cas-based precise genome editing is now a widely adopted platform in various organisms, from plants to animals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing tools.
• To discuss the ongoing development and modifications of the CRISPR/Cas system for enhanced efficiency and fidelity.
• To highlight limitations and concerns associated with current CRISPR/Cas technologies.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on CRISPR/Cas tools.
• Analysis of modifications to Cas effector proteins for diverse genetic manipulations.
• Examination of strategies to overcome limitations in CRISPR/Cas applications.

Main Results:

• CRISPR/Cas systems have been extensively modified, enabling precise genome editing, base editing, transposition, recombination, and epigenetic regulation.
• Continuous development is addressing challenges such as off-target effects, limited targeting scope, and delivery issues.
• A diverse array of CRISPR/Cas-based tools are available for genetic manipulation.

Conclusions:

• CRISPR/Cas technology has revolutionized genome editing with broad applicability.
• Ongoing research focuses on improving CRISPR/Cas tools' efficiency, specificity, and delivery for therapeutic and engineering purposes.
• Understanding limitations and concerns is crucial for responsible development and application of CRISPR/Cas technologies.