CRISPR/Cas systems in therapeutics: Transforming gene editing into medical solutions

Abstract

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR- associated (Cas) systems are known for their innate ability to provide adaptive immunity against viruses and plasmids in bacteria and archaea. With research and development, versatility of CRISPR/Cas systems has been employed in gene editing technology enabling precise and efficient gene manipulation, and has been harnessed extensively in both diagnostics and therapeutics. CRISPR/Cas system is useful whether in correcting monogenic disorders caused by point mutations, cancer-associated gene alterations, or countering viral diseases. While disease treatment is primary, these systems are also being implemented for designing animal models for research purposes. This comprehensive review aims to provide researchers with an in-depth understanding of various CRISPR/Cas systems, highlighting their applications in the treatment and diagnostics of a range of diseases and disorders.