Nano-Delivery for CRISPR-Cas9 Technology in Precision Medicine

The integration of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and nanotechnology is transforming precision medicine through the targeted, efficient, and safe delivery of gene-editing agents. With its great promise in the treatment of genetic disorders, the clinical application of CRISPR/Cas9 is hampered by delivery issues such as degradation, immunogenicity, and off-target effects. This chapter discusses the evolution and use of nano-delivery systems like lipid nanoparticles, polymeric carriers, dendrimers, gold nanoparticles, and exosomes to deliver CRISPR/Cas9 elements across biological barriers in a highly specific manner. Focus is given to nanoformulation strategies that maximize cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and nuclear localization with minimal systemic toxicity. Case studies of preclinical and clinical progress in nano-delivered CRISPR therapies for cancer, genetic diseases, and viral diseases are also presented. The chapter is wrapped up with perspectives on regulatory affairs and future directions on combining nanocarriers with genome editing for personalized medicine.