Application of nanoparticles in CRISPR/Cas9-based gene therapy

Abstract

CRISPR/Cas9 is a cutting-edge gene-editing technology that has emerged as a promising tool for gene therapy. Nevertheless, the safe and efficient delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 is still an urgent issue in clinical application. Nanoparticles, such as lipid-based nanoparticles, polymer nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, and biofilm nanoparticles, are expected to bring new opportunities for CRISPR/Cas9-based gene therapy because of their biocompatibility, safety and designability. This review briefly introduced the characteristics of nanoparticles and the development of CRISPR/Cas9 in gene therapy. Moreover, the application of nanoparticles in the delivery of different forms of CRISPR/Cas9 were elaborated. Finally, the challenges and safety of nanoparticle-based gene therapy were discussed.