CRISPR Screens to Identify Immunotherapy Targets in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide and a leading cause of cancer mortality. Despite advances in immunotherapy, only a subset of CRC patients responds favorably, highlighting the urgent need to identify novel and effective immunotherapy targets.CRISPR-based genome-wide screening technologies have revolutionized functional genomics by enabling systematic interrogation of gene function in complex biological systems. In the context of colorectal cancer, these powerful tools offer a unique opportunity to unravel mechanisms of immune evasion, identify new biomarkers, and discover gene targets that can enhance immunotherapeutic approaches.This Research Topic welcomes original research, reviews, and perspectives that explore the application of CRISPR screens to uncover novel immunotherapy targets in colorectal cancer. Contributions may include, but are not limited to:1. Development and implementation of CRISPR knockout, CRISPR interference (CRISPRi), or activation (CRISPRa) screens in CRC models2. Identification of genetic determinants that modulate tumor-immune interactions3. Discovery of novel immune checkpoint regulators, tumor antigens, or other therapeutic targets4. Studies integrating multi-omics with CRISPR screens for target validation5. Mechanistic insights into immune resistance in CRC6. Translational studies or pipeline development for moving from CRISPR hits to preclinical drug targets7. Challenges and advances in CRISPR screening technologies specific to the tumor microenvironment of CRCWe encourage submissions from both basic and translational scientists focusing on leveraging CRISPR-based approaches to advance the field of immunotherapy for colorectal cancer. Topic editors: Dmitrii Shek, Haiwei Mou, Vipin Menon, Zexiang Chen Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/73126/crispr-screens-to-identify-immunotherapy-targets-in-colorectal-cancer