Advances and Challenges in Mycobacterial Genetic Engineering: Techniques for Knockout, Knockdown and Overexpression

Genetic engineering of mycobacteria is challenging due to their hydrophobic cell wall structure and slow growth rates. Despite these obstacles, significant progress has been made to develop genetic engineering tools to study gene function and pathogenesis in these organisms. This review comprehensively explores the current methodologies employed in the genetic modification of mycobacteria, focusing on gene knockout, knockdown, and overexpression systems. Techniques covered include homologous recombination, recombineering, transposon mutagenesis, CRISPR-Cas systems, conditional expression strategies, and phage-mediated gene delivery. The mechanism, advantages, and limitations of those methods are critically analyzed, with particular emphasis on the adaptability of these tools to various mycobacterial species. By providing a detailed comparative analysis of available genetic tools, this review is a practical guide for researchers aiming to develop targeted and efficient genetic modifications in Mycobacterium species, accelerating discoveries in pathogenesis, drug resistance, and vaccine development.