Adam Lee

How can we utilize nano-delivery technology in conjecture with CRISPR/Cas9 to develop a potential treatment to treat individuals contracted with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)?

Started June 15, 2023

Abstract or project description

With the groundbreaking invention of mRNA vaccines, scientists have opened the doors for gene therapy across various diseases, ranging from cancers to brain disorders. One disease that has dramatically impacted humanity is Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), with millions killed and no currently available treatment. HIV has been of high concern because it will eventually lead to AIDS, in which the body’s immune system cannot fight back against many diseases, even those our bodies detect and kill daily. In this paper, we investigated the use of a variety of nanoparticles that would deliver CRISPR/Cas9 into the bloodstream and target cells infected with HIV based on research papers discussing the different available nanoparticles. Specifically, we hope to design a nanoparticle with antibodies or ligands that would interact with marker proteins of infected macrophages or T cells to target infected cells. Once identified, the intent is to have the nanoparticle enter the cell through endocytosis and release CRISPR/Cas9. When it is inside the cell, we want to use CRISPR/Cas9 to remove the HIV sequence from the genome. To properly remove the sequence, we have consulted genome databases to determine the specific RNA sequence so CRISPR can recognize the sequence. Finally, to remove any remaining pathogens, we would still use additional nanoparticles to target HIV based on its marker protein and splice the RNA so it cannot properly reproduce within cells.