Advances and challenges in the application of CRISPR technology for environmental biological pollution control

Abstract

Biological pollution, including pathogenic microorganisms, antibiotic resistance, invasive species, and harmful organisms, poses increasing threats to ecosystems, food security, and public health. In recent years, CRISPR-based technologies have emerged as powerful tools for biological pollution control due to their high precision, programmability, and versatility. In this Review, we summarize recent advances in CRISPR gene-editing applications for mitigating biological pollution, including the control of pathogenic microorganisms, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and resistance genes, as well as invasive and harmful species through targeted genetic interventions. We also discuss the role of CRISPR diagnostic platforms in environmental surveillance as complementary tools for identifying and tracking biological contaminants. Furthermore, we critically examine key technical, ecological, and governance challenges that constrain the translation of CRISPR-based strategies from laboratory studies to real-world environmental applications. Finally, we highlight emerging directions in high-precision editing, intelligent delivery systems, and responsible governance frameworks that will be essential for the safe and sustainable deployment of CRISPR technologies in environmental pollution control.