Application and Challenge of CRISPR System to Mitochondrial Genetic Disorders

Abstract

A distinct class of genetic illnesses known as mitochondrial genetic disorders is brought on by genetic mutations in the mitochondrial DNA. The lowest prevalence of mtDNA mutations is 1 in 5,000, leading to mitochondrial genetic disorders for which there are yet no economical diagnostic methods or therapeutic interventions. The CRISPR system is an immune defense system of prokaryotes that can recognize and cut foreign DNA, inhibit the expression of foreign genes, and fend off viral interference. It is because of its precise targeting ability that the CRISPR/Cas system has been transformed into a highly effective gene editing technique. Future treatments for mitochondrial illnesses may benefit from the CRISPR system, as well as the successful development of mitochondrial gene editing instruments. By referring to both domestic and international literature, this paper introduces Crispr/Cas technology and mitochondrial genes, summarizes specific cases of CRISPR system applied to mitochondrial gene, and focuses on the technical limitations of Crispr system for mtDNA modification. There is also discussion of the application prospect of CRISPR system in mtDNA modification. At present, it is found that the main challenge impeding the advancement of mtDNA editing technology within the CRISPR system is the technology for gRNA to gain entry into the mitochondria.