Advancements in CRISPR–Cas Systems for Genome Editing towards Eradication of Human Microbial Pathogens

Abstract

CRISPR–Cas systems have been explored for targeted genome editing of several organisms. It is rapid, cost-effective, specific, and versatile technology. It requires expression of multidomain single Cas9 protein and single guide RNA (sgRNA) that targets desired nucleic acids in the presence of a protospacer adjacent motif (PAM). This generates a double-stranded break that is repaired by either non-homologous end joining or a homology-directed repair pathway. Currently, several Cas protein variants have been discovered and being used for several biotechnological applications. This review highlights the recent progress of CRISPR–Cas systems for genome editing of mainly human pathogenic microorganisms for their controlling infections.