Advancements in Nonviral Gene Editing Strategies for Rare Diseases

Abstract

Rare diseases are serious and often chronic conditions that affect a small number of individuals. However, with over 7,000 rare diseases identified, their cumulative global numbers and impact are substantial. A considerable proportion of these conditions is caused by genetic abnormalities. Among these, monogenic disorders are of particular relevance, as they are caused by mutations in specific genes. The development of gene therapy, and more specifically, gene editing, offers innovative approaches to treat these rare diseases. A significant challenge associated with the implementation of such strategies concerns the delivery of gene editing tools. Nonviral vectors based on nanomaterials have demonstrated considerable potential as promising alternatives to viral vectors, thereby overcoming their disadvantages. The biocompatibility and tunability of nanoparticles, along with their potential capacity to target diverse tissues, positions them as a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of a wide range of organ-specific rare diseases. Here, we review current progress in the development and evaluation of novel nanomedicine strategies for gene editing in rare diseases, highlighting new gene editing approaches, delivery systems, and potential targets.