1ST PLACE, LITERATURE REVIEW TRACK: The potential of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to enhance CAR T-cell therapy as a targeted treatment for leukemia

This systematic literature review explores the potential of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to enhance chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy as a targeted treatment for leukemia. Leukemia, a group of hematologic malignancies originating in the bone marrow, is characterized by the abnormal proliferation of white blood cells. Although current treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and stem cell transplantation have improved survival rates, they often lead to severe side effects and may fail due to relapse or resistance. CAR T cell therapy, a form of immunotherapy that engineers a patient’s T cells to recognize and destroy cancer cells, has shown promise in treating certain types of leukemia. However, challenges such as limited persistence, off-target effects, and tumor resistance remain. CRISPR-Cas9 provides a precise method to modify genes, potentially improving the function and durability of CAR T cells by deleting genes that suppress immune responses or inserting genes that enhance anti-cancer activity. This review examines clinical and preclinical studies demonstrating the feasibility of CRISPR-engineered CAR T cells in enhancing safety and efficacy. It also addresses current challenges, such as the risk of unintended genetic modifications and the need for more long-term data. Future research is focused on refining gene-editing precision, creating universal donor CAR T cells, and ensuring clinical safety. Overall, CRISPR technology holds transformative potential to overcome current limitations in CAR T cell therapy and advance leukemia immunotherapy.