Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part B (2025)

The transformative potential of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in both medicine and agriculture, highlighting its applications, challenges, and future directions. In the medical field, CRISPR-Cas9 is revolutionizing gene therapy by enabling precise corrections in genetic disorders, such as sickle cell disease and chronic granulomatous disease, thereby improving patient outcomes. The technology is also being utilized in cancer treatment, particularly through the engineering of CAR-T cells, which enhances their efficacy against tumors. However, the paper addresses significant challenges, including off-target effects and ethical considerations surrounding its application in human subjects, necessitating ongoing research to mitigate these issues.
In agriculture, CRISPR-Cas9 is being leveraged to enhance crop traits, such as yield and nutritional content. The development of transgene-free varieties exemplifies its potential to create crops with desirable characteristics, including disease resistance and improved oil composition. The technology also contributes to sustainable agricultural practices by increasing crop resilience to environmental stresses, thereby reducing reliance on chemical inputs. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to harnessing CRISPR-Cas9's capabilities while addressing the ethical and regulatory challenges that accompany its use in both fields.