Treating genetic blood disorders in the era of CRISPR-mediated genome editing

In the setting of monogenic disease, advances made in genome editing technologies can, in principle, be deployed as a therapeutic strategy to precisely correct a specific gene mutation in an affected cell type and restore functionality. Using the β-hemoglobinopathies and hemophilia as exemplars, we review recent experimental breakthroughs using CRISPR-derived genome editing technology that have translated to significant improvements in the management of inherited hematologic disorders. Yet there are also challenges facing the use of CRISPR-mediated genome editing in these patients; we discuss possible ways to obviate those issues for furtherance of clinical benefit.