Light-controlled CRISPR-dCas9 epigenome editing: advanced drug-delivery strategies and oncology applications.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review of mechanisms and technologies without original human data
PubMed 42342132 · doi:10.1016/j.addr.2026.115921
What was done
This narrative review synthesizes the engineering principles and translational strategies for light-controlled CRISPR-dCas9 epigenome editing in oncology. It examines dCas9 scaffold and guide architectures, blue-to-near-infrared photoswitches, epigenetic effector designs, and viral, non-viral, or stimuli-responsive delivery platforms coordinated with clinical light interfaces. It also outlines four proposed therapeutic routes for cancer and a translational roadmap encompassing preclinical models, biomarkers, regulatory factors, and future device technologies.
What was found
The abstract provides a qualitative technical synthesis and conceptual translational framework. No quantitative experimental data, metrics, or statistical findings are reported.
Why it matters
Optogenetic epigenome editing enables locus-specific, reversible, and spatiotemporally controlled gene regulation without double-strand DNA breaks, offering a potential path to overcome the systemic toxicity of conventional epigenetic drugs.
Limits
As a narrative review, the paper provides no new empirical data or systematic synthesis. The outlined delivery platforms, implantable optical devices, and clinical applications are largely conceptual or in early preclinical stages.
Cited by
- supports CRISPR-based epigenetic editing can turn genes on or off without cutting the underlying DNA sequence.