CRISPR's impact on cancer: From fundamental models to clinical solutions

CRISPR is a programmable genome editing method that has transformed genome engineering and advanced cancer research. Various engineering iterations of CRISPR, including base and prime editing, facilitate more accurate and adaptable genomic manipulations, opening new frontiers in understanding and combating cancer. This review emphasizes CRISPR's significant influence in cancer biology, from its ability to accurately recreate somatic mutations in cellular and animal models to its application in developing precise diagnostic tools. We also examine advancements in cancer therapies, particularly through the ex vivo engineering of robust chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells that perform effectively in restrictive tumor microenvironments. Lastly, we consider the existing limitations of CRISPR-Cas systems and outline future directions that could further enhance the application of this powerful technology against cancer.