Recent advances in CRISPR-based functional genomics for the study of disease-associated genetic variants

Abstract

Advances in sequencing technology have greatly increased our ability to gather genomic data, yet understanding the impact of genetic mutations, particularly variants of uncertain significance (VUSs), remains a challenge in precision medicine. The CRISPR-Cas system has emerged as a pivotal tool for genome engineering, enabling the precise incorporation of specific genetic variations, including VUSs, into DNA to facilitate their functional characterization. Additionally, the integration of CRISPR-Cas technology with sequencing tools allows the high-throughput evaluation of mutations, transforming uncertain genetic data into actionable insights. This allows researchers to comprehensively study the functional consequences of point mutations, paving the way for enhanced understanding and increasing application to precision medicine. This review summarizes the current genome editing tools utilizing CRISPR-Cas systems and their combination with sequencing tools for functional genomics, with a focus on point mutations.