Annals of Medical and Surgical Dermatology

ABSTRACT

The discovery of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) and associated Cas nucleases has revolutionized gene editing by enabling precise, efficient, and cost-effective modifications to the human genome. In dermatology, CRISPR has emerged as a transformative tool, offering potential cures for a range of inherited and acquired skin diseases. Genodermatoses such as Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) and Ichthyosis have been among the first to benefit from ex vivo correction using CRISPR-Cas9, demonstrating restored gene function in keratinocytes and fibroblasts.

Beyond genetic disorders, CRISPR has been applied to target cutaneous pathogens. Studies have successfully disrupted viral DNA in models of human papillomavirus (HPV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV), suggesting a role in eradicating persistent skin infections. In melanoma research, CRISPR has facilitated gene knockout screens to identify novel therapeutic targets, including tumor suppressors and immune evasion pathways.

Despite its promise, CRISPR-based therapies face hurdles such as off-target effects, immune responses to Cas proteins, and challenges in delivering gene editors to skin cells in vivo. Advances in delivery vectors—like lipid nanoparticles and microneedle patches—alongside high-fidelity Cas variants, are helping overcome these barriers. Continued innovation may soon make CRISPR a clinical reality in dermatology.

KEYWORDS

1. CRISPR
2. Dermatology
3. Gene editing
4. Genodermatoses
5. Viruses
6. Cutaneous disease
7. Viral skin infections
8. High-fidelity cas variants