CRISPR/Cas9 for overcoming drug resistance in solid tumors

Objectives: In this review, we focus on the application of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR associated nuclease 9 (Cas9), as a powerful genome editing system, in the identification of resistance mechanisms and in overcoming drug resistance in the most frequent solid tumors. Data acquisition: Data were collected by conducting systematic searching of scientific English literature using specific keywords such as “cancer”, “CRISPR” and related combinations. Results: The review findings revealed the importance of CRISPR/Cas9 system in understanding drug resistance mechanisms and identification of resistance-related genes such as PBRM1, SLFN11 and ATPE1 in different cancers. We also provided an overview of genes, including RSF1, CDK5, and SGOL1, whose disruption can synergize with the currently available drugs such as paclitaxel and sorafenib. Conclusion: The data suggest CRISPR/Cas9 system as a useful tool in elucidating the molecular basis of drug resistance and improving clinical outcomes. [Figure not available: see fulltext.]