Author(s) :

Zoey A Lee.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and hyperphosphorylated tau tangles. It can be classified as either familial or sporadic, with sporadic AD being the most common. While each type has its own genetic associations, the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene and its variants are the most strongly linked with sporadic Alzheimer’s. Given the genetic component of AD, CRISPR/Cas9 technology has recently emerged as a promising tool for genetic therapy due to its precision and efficiency. However, its clinical translation faces significant challenges, particularly in achieving safe and effective delivery to the brain, which requires penetration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Exosomes, small extracellular vesicles capable of naturally crossing the BBB, offer a potential solution for CRISPR/Cas delivery. Advances in engineering have led to the development of “designer exosomes,” which can be modified to enhance stability, targeting and cargo capacity. This review covers key genetic risk factors associated with sporadic Alzheimer’s and explores how CRISPR/Cas systems, together with exosome-based delivery, have the potential to be applied for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes in AD. By synthesizing recent studies, this review highlights that combination of CRISPR/Cas with engineered exosomes represents a promising strategy for future AD research and therapy.