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Updated: Jul 9, 2025

Dual CRISPR-Interference Strategy for Targeting Synthetic Lethal Interactions Between Non-Coding RNAs in Cancer Cells
Published on: May 30, 2025
Targeting long non-coding RNAs in cancer therapy using CRISPR-Cas9 technology: A novel paradigm for precision
Rahul Kumar Mahato1, Srinjan Bhattacharya1, Naina Khullar2
1Laboratory of Translational Medicine and Nanotherapeutics, Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, India.
Abstract:
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, despite recent advances in its identification and management. To improve cancer patient diagnosis and care, it is necessary to identify new biomarkers and molecular targets. In recent years, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have surfaced as important contributors to various cellular activities, with growing proof indicating their substantial role in the genesis, development, and spread of cancer. Their unique expression profiles within specific tissues and their wide-ranging functionalities make lncRNAs excellent candidates for potential therapeutic intervention in cancer management. They are implicated in multiple hallmarks of cancer, such as uncontrolled proliferation, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. This review article explores the innovative application of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in targeting lncRNAs as a cancer therapeutic strategy. The CRISPR-Cas9 system has been widely applied in functional genomics, gene therapy, and cancer research, offering a versatile platform for lncRNA targeting. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated targeting of lncRNAs can be achieved through CRISPR interference, activation or the complete knockout of lncRNA loci. Combining CRISPR-Cas9 technology with high-throughput functional genomics makes it possible to identify lncRNAs critical for the survival of specific cancer subtypes, opening the door for tailored treatments and personalised cancer therapies. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated lncRNA targeting with other cutting-edge cancer therapies, such as immunotherapy and targeted molecular therapeutics can be used to overcome the drug resistance in cancer. The synergy of lncRNA research and CRISPR-Cas9 technology presents immense potential for individualized cancer treatment, offering renewed hope in the battle against this disease.
Insights
CRISPR-Cas9 technology offers a novel approach to target long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) for cancer therapy. This strategy holds promise for developing personalized cancer treatments and overcoming drug resistance.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, necessitating novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
- Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in cancer development and progression.
- Identifying new molecular targets and biomarkers is crucial for advancing cancer patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the application of CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology for targeting lncRNAs in cancer.
- To review the potential of lncRNA targeting as a therapeutic strategy for cancer management.
- To discuss the integration of CRISPR-Cas9 and lncRNA research for personalized cancer therapies.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on CRISPR-Cas9 technology and its application in lncRNA research.
- Discussion of CRISPR-Cas9-mediated targeting strategies for lncRNAs, including interference, activation, and knockout.
- Exploration of combining CRISPR-Cas9 with high-throughput functional genomics to identify critical lncRNAs.
Main Results:
- CRISPR-Cas9 provides a versatile platform for precise targeting of lncRNAs.
- CRISPR-Cas9 enables the identification of lncRNAs essential for specific cancer subtype survival.
- Synergistic approaches combining CRISPR-Cas9-mediated lncRNA targeting with other therapies can overcome drug resistance.
Conclusions:
- CRISPR-Cas9-mediated lncRNA targeting represents a promising avenue for innovative cancer therapeutics.
- This approach facilitates the development of tailored treatments and personalized cancer therapies.
- The integration of lncRNA research and CRISPR-Cas9 technology offers significant potential for improving cancer treatment outcomes.
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