Making gene editing accessible in resource limited environments: recommendations to guide a first-time user

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Genomics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology has revolutionized genome engineering, earning a Nobel Prize for its developers.
• Recent advances include FDA-approved therapies for sickle cell anaemia and xenotransplantation, primarily in the Global North.
• Limited resources, funding, and expertise in the Global South impede the adoption of CRISPR-Cas9.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore economical approaches for efficient genome engineering.
• To support first-time users with limited resources in low- and middle-income countries.
• To democratize the use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology globally.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing experimental techniques for genome engineering.
• Analysis of factors influencing successful genetic manipulation, including chromatin landscape and guide RNA selection.
• Assessment of pitfalls such as underrepresentation of global genetic diversity.

Main Results:

• Identification of practical, resource-efficient genome engineering strategies.
• Outline of perspectives for adopting genome engineering in resource-limited settings.
• Emphasis on the importance of target locus analysis and gene-edited cell profiling.

Conclusions:

• Economical genome engineering approaches are crucial for enabling widespread adoption in low- and middle-income countries.
• Addressing challenges like limited resources and genetic diversity is key to successful genome editing innovations.
• Democratizing CRISPR-Cas9 technology can accelerate global health advancements.