RNA and CRISPR Interferences: Past, Present, and Future Perspectives

CRISPR-Cas9-mediated deletion of carbonic anhydrase 2 in the ciliary body to treat glaucoma

The carbonic anhydrase 2 (Car2) gene encodes the primary isoenzyme responsible for aqueous humor (AH) production and plays a major role in the regulation of intraocular pressure (IOP). The CRISPR-Cas9 system, based on the ShH10 adenovirus-associated virus, can efficiently disrupt the Car2 gene in the ciliary body. With a single intravitreal injection, Car2 knockout can significantly and sustainably reduce IOP in both normal mice and glaucoma models by inhibiting AH production. Furthermore, it effectively delays and even halts glaucomatous damage induced by prolonged high IOP in a chronic ocular hypertension model, surpassing the efficacy of clinically available carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as brinzolamide. The clinical application of CRISPR-Cas9 based disruption of Car2 is an attractive therapeutic strategy that could bring additional benefits to patients with glaucoma.

Pulmonary delivery of siRNA against acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome

The use of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) has been under investigation for the treatment of several unmet medical needs, including acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ALI/ARDS) wherein siRNA may be implemented to modify the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines at the mRNA level. The properties such as clear anatomy, accessibility, and relatively low enzyme activity make the lung a good target for local siRNA therapy. However, the translation of siRNA is restricted by the inefficient delivery of siRNA therapeutics to the target cells due to the properties of naked siRNA. Thus, this review will focus on the various delivery systems that can be used and the different barriers that need to be surmounted for the development of stable inhalable siRNA formulations for human use before siRNA therapeutics for ALI/ARDS become available in the clinic.

Functional Genomics Offers New Tests of Speciation Hypotheses

Speciation is a fundamental process shaping biodiversity. However, existing empirical methods often cannot provide key genetic and functional details required to validate speciation theory. New gene modification technologies can verify the causal functionality of genes with astonishing accuracy, helping resolve questions about how reproductive isolation evolves during speciation.

ZIF-C for targeted RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9 based gene editing in prostate cancer

Metal–organic-frameworks for gene therapy in prostate cancer – ZIF-C based delivery of RNA interference and CRISPR/Cas9 causes host gene expression knockdown. Coating with a green tea phytochemical enhances uptake and increases cancer cytotoxicity.