CRISPR-Based Therapy for Ischemic Stroke: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Ischemic stroke (IS) is a leading cause of neurological disability worldwide, resulting from impaired cerebral blood flow.
• Current IS treatments have limitations, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
• CRISPR gene-editing technology presents a precise method to address IS pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of CRISPR gene-editing technology in treating ischemic stroke.
• To review CRISPR-based strategies targeting molecular pathways involved in IS.
• To assess the efficacy and challenges of CRISPR delivery systems for neural cells.

Main Methods:

• CRISPR-Cas9 systems were utilized to modulate genes involved in inflammation, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and cell death.
• CRISPR was employed to target non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and RNA methylation.
• CRISPR was investigated for its role in modulating cell communication, organelle transfer, and mitochondrial mutations.

Main Results:

• CRISPR-Cas9 effectively modulated key pathogenic pathways, reducing neuronal damage and improving neurological function in preclinical models.
• CRISPR-based targeting of ncRNAs and RNA methylation influenced oxidative stress and stress granule formation.
• Modulation of cell communication, organelle transfer, and correction of mitochondrial mutations showed neuroprotective effects.

Conclusions:

• CRISPR gene-editing demonstrates significant potential as a neuroprotective strategy for ischemic stroke.
• Advances in CRISPR delivery systems are crucial for effective neural cell targeting.
• CRISPR-based therapies hold promise for precision neurotherapeutics, potentially revolutionizing stroke treatment.