Progress in CRISPR/CAS13-Mediated Suppression of Influenza A and SARS-CoV-2 Virus Infection in in vitro and in vivo

Alisa A Kazakova1, Elena I Leonova2, Julia V Sopova3

  • 1Sirius University of Science and Technology, Federal Territory "Sirius", 354340, Russia.

PubMed

Insights

The CRISPR/Cas13 system shows promise for treating severe viral infections like influenza and COVID-19 by degrading viral RNA. This review explores its effectiveness in cell cultures and animal models for future antiviral therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Virology
  • Gene Editing Technologies

Background:

  • Severe influenza and COVID-19 cause approximately 1 million deaths annually.
  • Effective antiviral therapies are crucial for managing these global health threats.
  • CRISPR/Cas13 systems offer a novel approach for degrading viral RNA.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the efficacy of CRISPR/Cas13 systems as an antiviral strategy.
  • To analyze experimental in vitro and in vivo studies.
  • To discuss future directions for improving CRISPR/Cas13 systems.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of published experimental studies on CRISPR/Cas13.
  • Evaluation of in vitro cell culture experiments.
  • Assessment of in vivo animal model studies.

Main Results:

  • CRISPR/Cas13 systems demonstrate high efficiency in suppressing viral transcripts.
  • Recent advances in mRNA technology and delivery systems enable in vivo applications.
  • Studies show significant reduction in viral titers using CRISPR/Cas13.

Conclusions:

  • CRISPR/Cas13 systems present a promising avenue for treating viral diseases.
  • Further research is needed to optimize CRISPR/Cas13 for clinical application.
  • Understanding the prospects and limitations is key for future development.

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