The Nobel prize winning CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system is being explored for its potential use in cancer research and treatment. By deleting, inactivating, or otherwise modifying specific genes in cultured cells or in animal models, researchers have been able to study the role of these genes in cancer development and progression, providing insight into how to prevent or treat certain cancers.

The research team at University of Pennsylvania have been using CRISPR editing to improve the effectiveness of gene therapies for cancer. The latest preliminary data from their study show that removing genes known to stifle T cell activation on CAR T cells enhanced the engineered T cells’s ability to eliminate blood cancers. 

CureTalks panel talks to Dr. Edward A. Stadtmauer from University of Pennsylvania about, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system, scope of the tool in cancer treatment and management.