A radioactive CRISPR interference system using 89 Zr-labeled LbCas12a.

Recently, CRISPR proteins have been recognized as promising candidates for drug development. However, there is still a lack of substances with the appropriate sensitivity and stability for targeted drug delivery systems. ⁸⁹ Zr is a radioactive isotope that emits positrons, allowing real-time in vivo tracking with proven safety. In this study, we confirmed that labeling with ⁸⁹ Zr did not compromise the functionality of CRISPR proteins during in vivo behavioral imaging. Furthermore, we demonstrated the therapeutic efficacy of the CRISPR interference system in a mouse model of liver fibrosis, highlighting the theragnostic potential of isotope-labeled CRISPR proteins. The findings of this research could contribute to various aspects of ongoing clinical studies exploring the in vivo applications of CRISPR proteins.
Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that no competing interests exist.
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