Review of the CRISPR/Cas9 System on the Development of Novel Cancer-Focused Diagnostics and Therapies

Abstract

Cancer is one of the most devastating diseases: presenting itself via a variety of hallmark clinical features but a commonality among them is the uncontrolled division and survival of cells due to altered signaling and metabolism. When looking at cancer treatments, patients are given a variety of options such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, stem cell and bone marrow transplants. CRISPR/Cas9 is a novel genetic engineering technique that enables researchers to precisely manipulate and edit the DNA of living organisms. It is made up of two key components: the Cas9 enzyme acts as a molecular scissor to precisely cut parts of the DNA, and then the guide RNA directs the Cas9 to the specific sequence that it should edit. CRISPR/Cas9 represents a paradigm shift in the field of cancer research and treatment, offering unparalleled precision and adaptability in genetic engineering. The ability to target specific genes and correct mutations has unlocked new avenues for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.