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Review
. 2018 Jan 16;10(1):40.
doi: 10.3390/v10010040.

CRISPR-Cas Targeting of Host Genes as an Antiviral Strategy

Shuliang Chen  1 , Xiao Yu  2 , Deyin Guo  3
Affiliations
Review

CRISPR-Cas Targeting of Host Genes as an Antiviral Strategy

Shuliang Chen et al. Viruses. .

Abstract

Currently, a new gene editing tool-the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) associated (Cas) system-is becoming a promising approach for genetic manipulation at the genomic level. This simple method, originating from the adaptive immune defense system in prokaryotes, has been developed and applied to antiviral research in humans. Based on the characteristics of virus-host interactions and the basic rules of nucleic acid cleavage or gene activation of the CRISPR-Cas system, it can be used to target both the virus genome and host factors to clear viral reservoirs and prohibit virus infection or replication. Here, we summarize recent progress of the CRISPR-Cas technology in editing host genes as an antiviral strategy.

Keywords: CRISPR-Cas; antiviral strategy; gene targeting; host genes; virus.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Diagram of virus-host interactions and possible targets for various CRISPR-Cas system. Arrow indicates promotion and arrow with short vertical line indicates inhibition.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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