Pathogenic mutations within protein-coding regions of genomic DNA can disrupt protein structure and lead to hereditary disorders. Genome-editing technologies, particularly those based on clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeats-associated protein (CRISPR-Cas), are promising therapeutic tools for correcting genetic abnormalities. To date, viral delivery vectors for genome-editing biomacromolecules have shown numerous promises in treating genetic disorders. However, safe viral delivery for genome-editing components remains challenging, largely due to the immunogenicity of viruses. As an alternative, non-viral delivery systems are emerging as a safer choice and may offer solutions to address the safety challenges. In this review, we first introduce CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing tools and their delivery formats. Then, we outline the pathology of major genetic disorders and both preclinical and clinical approaches for these diseases by therapeutic genome editing, and provide an overview of current non-viral delivery strategies and their potential to overcome existing limitations. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and future outlooks of non-viral delivery of gene-editing components in treating genetic diseases.

Genetic diseases  /  Genome editing  /  Gene therapy  /  CRISPR-Cas  /  Non-viral delivery  /  Lipid nanoparticle  /  Virus-like particle  /  Selective organ targeting