Integrated Use and Research Progress of CRISPR/Cas9 in Cancer Therapy

Abstract

Due to the complexity and recurrence of cancer, traditional therapies often face the dilemma of insufficient efficacy or obvious side effects. In recent years, breakthroughs in gene editing technology have opened up new possibilities for cancer treatment, with CRISPR-Cas9 acting as a pair of molecular scissors, capable of pinpointing and modifying the genetic errors that cause cancer. For example, it can turn off overactive cancer-causing genes, repair key genetic defects that inhibit tumour growth in the body and even modify immune cells to more efficiently identify and attack cancer cells. Currently, scientists are exploring combining it with precision drug delivery and immunotherapy to boost treatment effectiveness and reduce damage to healthy tissue. Although the safety and efficiency of the editing process still needs to be addressed, the technology has already shown potential in some leukaemia and solid tumour treatments. In this paper, we systematically review the core strategies, recent advances and challenges of CRISPR-Cas9 in cancer therapy, which will provide a reference for the development of safer and more personalized anti-cancer regimens.