Application of CRISPR-based Technology in Infectious Diseases: A Review on its Potential Therapeutic and Diagnostic Aspects

Abstract

CRISPR-based technology is an interesting gene-editing technology that has created a remarkable position in the world of biology. The ability of CRISPR to detect a specific pathogen in the living cell, destroying that pathogen by on-target cleavage, is the main reason for its popularity. Due to the specificity associated with this system, its low-cost availability and high efficacy, it is a vital landmark in the biomedical field. Interestingly, it has been applied in the treatment of several viral infections like HIV, COVID-19, some bacterial infections, and fungal infections. The treatment includes the use of molecular scissors to cleave the DNA at a specific location of mutation. The removal of the mutated part provides outstanding results. Production of an enormous number of CRISPR-based therapeutics has gained attention because of their high effectiveness. But more research and clinical trials still need to be done to explore the CRISPR-Cas9 system and enhance its effectiveness. From the time of its discovery till now, almost 6 types and 22 subtypes of CRISPR systems have been discovered. Moreover, CRISPR diagnostic tools like SHERLOCK are used, and diagnostic tests are performed with the help of simple reagents. Many preclinical trials and clinical trials are going on to enhance its features. CRISPR systems have a broad range of applicability, and in the near future, various therapies and diagnostic tools will be discovered.