Table 1.
Advantages and challenges of vectors in combination with the CRISPR/Cas9 system
| Vector | Molecule | Advantages | Challenges | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adeno-associated virus | DNA | High transduction efficiency Transduces dividing and non-dividing cells Low immunogenicity |
High cost Limited packaging capacity (~4kb) Preexisting neutralizing antibodies Constant expression of Cas9 increases the risk for off-target effects |
[134, 136, 147] |
| Lentivirus | RNA | High transduction efficiency Large packaging capacity (~10kb) Transduces dividing and non-dividing cells Low immunogenicity |
High cost Constant expression of Cas9 increases the risk for off-targeting effects |
[132, 147] |
| Non-viral vectors | DNA, RNA, RNP complex | *High biocompatibility Low immunogenicity Limited Cas9 expression when RNA and RNP decrease the risk for off-targeting effects. |
**Relative toxicity Limited delivery efficiency Cargo degradation |
[148, 149] |
*Compatibility and **toxicity depends on the chemical composition of non-viral vectors. A comprehensive review was recently published in this regard by Duan et al., 2021 [148].