Current advances in mammalian genome modification technology using the CRISPR-Cas9 principle
TL;DR
This article synthesizes contemporary advancements in CRISPR-mediated mammalian genome modification, detailing core mechanisms – such as guide RNA and the Cas9 endonuclease – alongside next-generation modalities, including base and prime editing.
Abstract
CRISPR-Cas9 is a site-specific genome editing platform derived from the adaptive immune systems of prokaryotes. The rapid evolution of this technology from fundamental laboratory research to large-scale industrial application underscores the necessity of this review. This article synthesizes contemporary advancements in CRISPR-mediated mammalian genome modification, detailing core mechanisms – such as guide RNA (gRNA) and the Cas9 endonuclease – alongside next-generation modalities, including base and prime editing. Furthermore, this review evaluates the strategic application of CRISPR in animal biotechnology, specifically regarding disease resistance, enhanced livestock productivity, the production of hypoallergenic dairy products, and the optimization of wool and meat quality. Beyond agriculture, breakthroughs in xenotransplantation, de-extinction, and epigenetic modulation are examined. By systematizing recent innovations that enable targeted modifications without double-strand breaks, this work also interrogates the ethical landscape, addressing biosafety, physiological risks, ecological impacts, and socioeconomic implications. Ultimately, this analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the technology's transformative potential in biology, agriculture, and medicine, contingent upon technical refinement and the establishment of robust regulatory frameworks.