Expanded Alternatives of CRISPR-Cas9 Applications in Immunotherapy of Colorectal Cancer

Mol Diagn Ther. 2024 Jan;28(1):69-86. doi: 10.1007/s40291-023-00680-z. Epub 2023 Oct 31.

Abstract

Immunotherapy for colorectal cancer (CRC) is limited to patients with advanced disease who have already undergone first-line chemotherapy and whose tumors exhibit microsatellite instability. Novel technical strategies are required to enhance therapeutic options and achieve a more robust immunological response. Therefore, exploring gene analysis and manipulation at the molecular level can further accelerate the development of advanced technologies to address these challenges. The emergence of advanced genome editing technology, particularly of clustered, regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-CRISPR-associated protein (Cas) 9, holds promise in expanding the boundaries of cancer immunotherapy. In this manuscript, we provide a comprehensive review of the applications and perspectives of CRISPR technology in improving the design, generation, and efficiency of current immunotherapies, focusing on solid tumors such as colorectal cancer, where these approaches have not been as successful as in hematological conditions.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • CRISPR-Cas Systems* / genetics
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Gene Editing
  • Genetic Therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy