CRISPR-dCas9-mediated CpG island editing: A potential game-changer for diabetes treatment

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. Current therapeutic strategies primarily manage symptoms, leaving a substantial unmet need for curative interventions. This review explores the potential of CRISPR-dCas9-mediated CpG island editing as a promising therapeutic approach for T2DM. CpG islands, DNA regions enriched in cytosine-guanine dinucleotides, play a pivotal role in gene regulation. Their methylation status significantly influences gene expression. By targeting specific CpG islands within genes involved in glucose metabolism and insulin signaling, CRISPR-dCas9 can modulate gene expression and restore metabolic homeostasis. A particular focus is placed on the TXNIP gene, implicated in T2D pathogenesis. Reprogramming TXNIP expression using CRISPR-dCas9 offers potential therapeutic benefits, including protecting pancreatic beta cells, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and mitigating inflammation. While the potential of CRISPR-dCas9-mediated CpG island editing is clear and evident now, further steps are imperative to translate this approach into effective and safe therapies for T2DM patients.