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Vol 3 | Issue 2 | Apr – Jun 2024                                                                                      Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 37  

Review Article 

Emerging Trends in Biomaterials for Cancer Immunotherapy and Genome 

Editing: A Comprehensive Review 

Ramdas Bhat1, Preeti Shanbhag2 

From, 1Associate Professor, 2PG Scholar, Department of Pharmacology, Srinivas College of Pharmacy, Valachil, Post Farangipete, 

Mangalore, Karnataka, India. 

ABSTRACT 

This detailed review navigates the dynamic landscape of cancer therapeutics, shifting focus from conventional approaches to the 

promising frontiers of immunotherapy and genome editing. Biomaterials, including nanoparticles and hydrogels, are scrutinized for 

their role in enhancing therapeutic efficacy across various cancer types. Breakthroughs in biomaterial-based interventions are 

emphasized, with a meticulous examination of critical methodological considerations, such as safety, biocompatibility, and delivery 

efficiency, laying the groundwork for future research.The narrative emphasizes the need for standardization and regulatory 

compliance to ensure the safety and reliability of emerging therapies moving towards clinical applications. Implications for theory, 

practice, and future research highlight the potential of biomaterial-based approaches to offer safer and more effective cancer 

treatments. The integration of personalized medicine is advocated, emphasizing tailored interventions based on individual patient 

profiles.The review underscores the multidisciplinary collaboration across materials science, immunology, and oncology as essential 

for a holistic understanding and effective development of biomaterial-based therapies. Overall, this review contributes to the ongoing 

shift towards safer, more efficacious, and personalized cancer therapeutics by exploring innovative avenues in immunotherapy and 

genome editing, while emphasizing the need for a methodologically rigorous approach in translating these advancements to clinical 

practice. 

Key words: Cancer immunotherapy, Precision genome editing, Biomaterials, CRISPR-Cas9, Combination therapies. 

ancer remains one of the most formidable challenges 

in modern medicine, affecting millions of lives 

worldwide each year [1]. Conventional therapies, 

such as chemotherapy and radiation, have made significant 

strides in treating certain types of cancer [2]. However, their 

limitations, such as off-target effects and drug resistance, have 

underscored the need for novel therapeutic approaches [3]. In 

recent years, cancer immunotherapy [4] and precision genome 

editing [5] have emerged as promising fields that hold the 

potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. The landscape of 

oncology has undergone a transformative shift with the 

integration of immune system harnessing and genome editing 

technologies, notably the revolutionary CRISPR-Cas9 system 

[6].  

Three primary facets define this paradigm shift in cancer 

treatment. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors, such as Nivolumab,  

Access this article online 

Received – 31st Jan 2024 

Initial Review – 27th Feb 2024 

Accepted – 15th Feb 2024 Quick Response Code 

pembrolizumab, atezolizumab, Durvalumab (Imfinzi), 

Ipilimumab (Yervoy), and Cemiplimab (Libtayo), have 

demonstrated success in treating various cancers, including 

bladder cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck 

squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, 

and advanced cervical cancer, enhancing overall survival rates 

and response durability [7]. Adoptive T cell therapies, 

exemplified by Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T-cell 

therapy, represent a groundbreaking approach. Examples such 

as Daliyno (tilmesogenecel), Breyanzi 

(lisocabtagenedarolumab), and Tecartus (breceltinib) utilize a 

patient's own tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) or 

engineered CAR T-cells to precisely target melanoma, large 

B-cell lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma [8].Cancer 

Vaccines, including Gvax (rasilmuplasmid), Papillomavirus 

vaccines (Gardasil, Cervarix), and personalized neoantigen 

vaccines, stimulate the immune system to identify and 

eliminate cancer cells, showcasing a personalized treatment 

approach [9].  

__________________________________________________ 

Correspondence to: Ramdas Bhat, Associate Professor, Dept. 

of Pharmacology, Srinivas College of Pharmacy, Valachil, 

Post Farangipete, Mangalore, Karnataka, India-574143. 

Email: ramdas21@gmail.com, Tel.: +91 7795772463. 

C 

mailto:ramdas21@gmail.com


Bhat & Shanbhag                                              Biomaterials: Revolutionizing Cancer Immunotherapy and Genomics 

Vol 3 | Issue 2 | Apr – Jun 2024                                                                                      Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 38  

In the realm of genome editing, the CRISPR/Cas-9 system 

stands out as a powerful tool, exhibiting promise in correcting 

mutations and restraining tumor growth in cancer research and 

treatment. Additionally, Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFNs), 

Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nucleases (TALENs), 

Base editing, and HDR (homology-directed repair) join the 

ranks of precision genome editing technologies, expanding the 

toolkit with their unique capabilities [10-13]. These 

advancements collectively hold immense potential in 

advancing cancer therapies, ushering in a new era of 

personalized and targeted interventions for improved patient 

outcomes.In cancer, the potential to target and correct genetic 

mutations implicated in tumor development offers 

unprecedented opportunities for precision medicine [14].  

However, successful cancer immunotherapy and genome 

editing demand efficient and controlled delivery systems to 

ensure therapeutic agents reach their targets with minimal side 

effects [15]. This is where cutting-edge biomaterials play a 

pivotal role [16]. Biomaterials have emerged as essential tools 

to optimize cancer immunotherapy and genome editing by 

providing tailored platforms for drug delivery, enhancing 

immune response, and improving gene editing efficiency [17]. 

In this review article, we explore the latest advancements in 

harnessing the power of biomaterials for cancer 

immunotherapy and precision genome editing [18]. We delve 

into various types of biomaterials, including nanoparticles 

[19], hydrogels [20], and viral vectors [21], and their 

applications in enhancing therapeutic efficacy and minimizing 

off-target effects. Additionally, we discuss the challenges and 

future directions in the development of biomaterial-based 

strategies to overcome obstacles faced in cancer treatment. 

METHOD AND MATERIALS 

In conducting this review on "Emerging Trends in 

Biomaterials for Cancer Immunotherapy and Genome 

Editing," an extensive examination of available literature was 

carried out, focusing on the integration of immune system 

enhancement and genome editing technologies in cancer 

treatment. Primary sources included reputable journals, 

scientific databases, and authoritative publications in 

oncology, immunotherapy, and genome editing. The search 

encompassed articles published up to January 2024 to ensure 

the inclusion of the latest advancements. The review 

strategically aimed to identify pivotal studies, clinical trials, 

and research papers elucidating the transformative impact of 

immune checkpoint inhibitors, adoptive T cell therapies, 

cancer vaccines, and genome editing tools, with a specific 

emphasis on the revolutionary CRISPR-Cas9 system in the 

oncology landscape.  

Meticulous curation of gathered information sought to 

present a comprehensive overview, emphasizing recent 

breakthroughs, emerging trends, and notable examples within 

each category. The narrative was enriched by incorporating 

specific examples related to lung cancer, breast cancer, and 

prostate cancer, providing a nuanced perspective on the 

application of these technologies across various cancer types. 

Beyond academic sources, reports from reputable medical and 

scientific organizations, scrutiny of clinical trial databases, 

and exploration of official regulatory publications ensured a 

well-rounded and evidence-based approach. The synthesis of 

this information aimed to provide readers with a clear 

understanding of the current landscape, challenges faced, and 

future directions in the dynamic intersection of immune 

system modulation and genome editing, propelling 

advancements in cancer therapies. The methodology placed a 

premium on accuracy, relevance, and the inclusion of diverse 

perspectives, contributing meaningfully to the ongoing 

scholarly conversation in this transformative field of research. 

Biomaterials for cancer immunotherapy 

1. Immune Modulatory Biomaterials: Immune modulatory 

biomaterials are ingeniously designed to manipulate the 

immune response, creating a favorable microenvironment 

conducive to the activation of anti-tumor immune cells [17]. 

Their pivotal role in elevating the efficacy of cancer 

immunotherapy is evident through their ability to deliver 

immune checkpoint inhibitors and immune-stimulating 

cytokines with precision. These biomaterials are meticulously 

engineered to release therapeutic agents in a sustained and 

controlled manner, ensuring a durable and precisely targeted 

immune response against the tumor[22, 23]. Nanoparticles, 

operating at the nanoscale, stand as formidable carriers for 

immune modulatory agents within cancer immunotherapy 

[24]. Laden with immune checkpoint inhibitors such as anti-

PD-1 or anti-CTLA-4 antibodies, effectively obstruct 

inhibitory signals, unleashing the potent activity of tumor-

specific T cells [25, 26].  

The controlled and gradual release of these antibodies 

from nanoparticles guarantees sustained immune activation, 

ultimately leading to profound tumor regression. On the other 

hand, hydrogels, intricate three-dimensional networks of 

crosslinked polymers, serve as exceptional vehicles for 

encapsulating and releasing immune-stimulating cytokines 

like interleukins (IL-2, IL-12) or interferon[27,28]. These 

hydrogels create a localized depot of these vital cytokines 

precisely at the tumor site, thus fostering the recruitment and 

activation of immune cells, thereby significantly amplifying 

the anti-tumor immune response. Furthermore, the versatility 

of hydrogels allows for the engineering of physical support 

and protection for immune cells, enhancing their survival and 

functionality within the challenging tumor microenvironment 

[27]. These advancements in biomaterials hold great promise 

in revolutionizing the landscape of cancer immunotherapy, 

offering new avenues to combat cancer with increased 

precision and effectiveness. 



Bhat & Shanbhag                                              Biomaterials: Revolutionizing Cancer Immunotherapy and Genomics 

Vol 3 | Issue 2 | Apr – Jun 2024                                                                                      Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 39  

2. Cancer Vaccines: Biomaterial-based cancer vaccines have 

emerged as a compelling approach to augment the body 

immune response against cancer cells [28]. These innovative 

vaccines are designed to bolster antigen presentation and 

stimulate robust immune reactions targeting tumor-specific 

antigens. One avenue of this strategy involves utilizing 

biomaterials like liposomes, nanoparticles, and virus-like 

particles as carriers for tumor-specific antigens [29]. These 

biomaterial carriers serve a dual purpose by safeguarding the 

antigens from degradation and enhancing their uptake by 

antigen-presenting cells (APCs)[30]. This, in turn, facilitates 

the efficient presentation of these antigens to T cells, igniting 

a potent and highly specific T cell response directed against 

cancer cells [31].  

Additionally, biomaterial-based cancer vaccines can 

incorporate adjuvants, substances known to enhance immune 

responses to antigens. Adjuvants like Toll-like receptor (TLR) 

agonists and cytokines are commonly integrated into these 

vaccines [32]. These adjuvants play a critical role in further 

amplifying the activation of APCs and T cells. By creating a 

pro-inflammatory microenvironment, they assist in the 

recruitment and activation of immune cells, ultimately 

reinforcing the immune assault on cancer [33]. This 

multifaceted approach harnessing biomaterials and adjuvants 

holds substantial promise in reshaping the landscape of cancer 

immunotherapy, offering innovative strategies to combat 

cancer more effectively and precisely. 

3. Adoptive Cell Therapies: Adoptive cell therapies (ACT), a 

groundbreaking approach in cancer treatment, involve the 

isolation and manipulation of a patient's own immune cells, 

primarily T cells, to target and eliminate cancer cells. Notably, 

chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy has 

demonstrated remarkable success in specific cancer types [34-

37]. Biomaterials play a pivotal role in the ex vivo 

engineering of CAR-T cells, functioning as delivery vehicles 

for CAR constructs and other genetic material into T cells 

[35,36]. This enables the T cells to express specific receptors 

(CARs) designed to recognize and engage cancer antigens 

effectively. Nanoparticles and viral vectors are frequently 

employed biomaterials, ensuring efficient gene delivery into T 

cells during this process. Moreover, the challenges 

encountered by CAR-T cells upon reinfusion into the patient's 

body within the complex tumor microenvironment are 

substantial [35-37].  

To address this, biomaterials, including hydrogels and 

scaffolds, can be custom-designed to provide physical support 

and essential nutrients to CAR-T cells. This support is crucial 

for their survival and persistence amidst the harsh conditions 

of the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, these 

biomaterial-based scaffolds can function as reservoirs for 

cytokines and other immune-modulating agents, further 

enhancing the anti-tumor activity of CAR-T cells [34-37]. 

This multifaceted approach that combines the power of 

biomaterials with CAR-T cell therapy holds immense promise 

in advancing the field of cancer immunotherapy, offering 

novel strategies to combat cancer more effectively by 

equipping engineered immune cells with the tools they need to 

navigate and conquer the complex tumor landscape. 

 
Figure 1. Biomaterials for cancer immunotherapy. 

Biomaterials for Genome Editing 

Biomaterials have emerged as essential tools in the field of 

genome editing, particularly with the advent of CRISPR-Cas9 

technology. Genome editing aims to precisely modify the 

DNA sequence of living organisms, offering unprecedented 

potential for treating genetic diseases, understanding gene 

function, and advancing biotechnology. Biomaterials play 

crucial roles in facilitating efficient and targeted delivery of 

CRISPR-Cas9 components, protecting these components from 

degradation, and enhancing gene editing efficiency [12,13]. 

The various types of biomaterials used in genome editing are: 

1. Delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 Components: Efficiently 

delivering the CRISPR-Cas9 system to target cells or tissues is 

a central challenge in genome editing, and biomaterials play a 

pivotal role in overcoming this obstacle [38]. These versatile 

carriers encapsulate and protect essential CRISPR-Cas9 

components, including the Cas9 protein or mRNA and guide 

RNA (gRNA) molecules, ensuring their successful delivery to 

the desired cellular destinations [39]. Three commonly used 

biomaterials in this context are nanoparticles, liposomes, and 

viral vectors [40]. Nanoparticles made from biocompatible 

materials, such as lipids or polymers, have shown remarkable 

efficacy as carriers for CRISPR-Cas9 components. They 



Bhat & Shanbhag                                              Biomaterials: Revolutionizing Cancer Immunotherapy and Genomics 

Vol 3 | Issue 2 | Apr – Jun 2024                                                                                      Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 40  

protect the cargo from degradation and allow for efficient 

uptake by target cells. Due to the large molecular weight of 

the Cas9 protein (approximately 4.5 kb in genetic size) and its 

low stability against serum enzymes and proteins, the entry of 

the Cas9/sgRNA or RNP complex into cells is challenging 

[41,42].  

However, nanoparticle delivery systems, such as lipid-

based nanoparticles and cationic polymer nanoparticles, have 

been developed to address these challenges. These delivery 

systems can be modified to target specific cell types, reducing 

off-target effects and improving gene editing precision. For 

instance, a DNA nanocell[NC]-based delivery system has 

been shown to efficiently load the Cas12a/crRNA RNP [42, 

43]. Additionally, systemic nanoparticle delivery of CRISPR-

Cas9 ribonucleoproteins has demonstrated effective tissue-

specific genome editing. The development of nanoparticle-

based technology for CRISPR-Cas9 delivery holds promising 

prospects for clinical gene editing, as evidenced by the 

completion of the first CRISPR/Cas9 clinical trial in 2016 

[44]. Furthermore, various studies have highlighted the 

potential of nanoparticle delivery systems for the efficient and 

targeted delivery of CRISPR-Cas9 components. Lipid 

nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, solid-lipid 

nanoparticles, nanostructured lipid carriers, and niosomes 

have all shown great potential in the delivery of CRISPR 

compounds to target cells. Additionally, polyamidoamine-

aptamer modified CRISPR/Cas9 and sorafenib-loaded hollow 

mesoporous silica nanoparticles have exhibited targeted 

delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 for precise gene editing [45].  

2. Liposomes: Liposomes, characterized by a lipid bilayer 

structure, play a pivotal role in genome editing, encapsulating 

various agents like nucleic acids and proteins. Their targeted 

delivery, responsiveness to environmental cues, and versatility 

in CRISPR/Cas9 applications make them indispensable. Key 

aspects in CRISPR delivery include: 

 PEGylation: Enhancing efficiency, PEG-modified 

liposomes optimize CRISPR delivery by improving 

pharmacokinetics and minimizing immune responses. 

 Endosomal Escape: Facilitating the release of CRISPR-

Cas9 cargo into the cellular cytoplasm, liposomes ensure 

effective genome editing. 

 Stimuli-Responsive Design: Tailored to environmental 

cues, liposomes provide spatial and temporal control over 

CRISPR cargo release. 

 Targeting Strategies: Surface modifications enable 

precise delivery to specific cells or tissues, enhancing 

CRISPR/Cas9 precision. 

 Light-Sensitive Delivery: Innovative light-sensitive 

liposomes, like those loaded with a photosensitizer, offer 

precise spatial and temporal control in CRISPR/Cas9 gene 

editing. Despite challenges like low transfection 

efficiency, the adaptability of liposome formulations 

allows customization for specific CRISPR requirements. 

Noteworthy liposome types include: 

 EG-Bearing Liposomes: Tailored with PEG, these 

liposomes, like the ones carrying CRISPR components, 

enhance genome editing efficiency by improving 

pharmacokinetics and minimizing immune responses. 

 Charged Liposomes: Positively or negatively charged 

liposomes, exemplified by those carrying CRISPR 

payloads, target specific cells, contributing to precise 

genetic modifications. 

 Stimuli-Responsive Liposomes: Engineered to respond to 

environmental cues, liposomes, such as those used in 

CRISPR delivery, ensure spatial and temporal control over 

cargo release, enhancing gene editing precision. 

 Light-Sensitive Liposomes: Innovations like light-

sensitive liposomes loaded with CRISPR components 

provide high control in gene editing, allowing for 

flexibility and precision. 

 AD Liposomes and Cationic Lipids: Liposomes derived 

from AD liposomes, as well as those using cationic lipids 

like DOTAP and DLin-MC3-DMA, showcase enhanced 

delivery efficiency in nucleic acid and CRISPR/Cas9-

mediated gene editing. These liposomes optimize genome-

editing efficiency by modulating endocytic pathways. 

[46,47]. 

3. Viral vectors: Viral vectors, such as adeno-associated 

viruses (AAVs) and lentiviruses, have a well-established 

history in gene therapy and are now integral to genome 

editing. These vectors deliver the CRISPR-Cas9 system to 

target cells with remarkable efficiency and offer the advantage 

of providing long-term expression of Cas9 and gRNA, making 

them particularly suitable for genetic diseases requiring 

sustained correction [42]. The use of viral vectors in gene 

therapy has seen significant progress, with nearly 70% of 

clinical trials utilizing viral vectors, highlighting their 

continued importance in the field. Despite their successes, 

challenges still limit their full potential, and ongoing research 

aims to address these limitations. Viral vectors have been 

employed for the treatment of various diseases, including 

metabolic, cardiovascular, muscular, hematologic, 

ophthalmologic, and infectious diseases, as well as different 

types of cancer [43,44].  

For example, AAV-based gene therapy has been used to 

treat spinal muscular atrophy, a rare genetic disease that 

causes muscle weakness and wasting. In this case, the AAV 

vector was used to deliver a functional copy of the SMN1 

gene to motor neurons, resulting in improved motor function 

and survival in patients. Another example is the use of 

lentiviral vectors in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. Lentiviral 

vectors have been used to deliver functional copies of the 

CCR5 gene, which encodes a co-receptor for HIV, to CD4+ T 

cells. This approach has been shown to protect against HIV 

infection in animal models and is currently being tested in 



Bhat & Shanbhag                                              Biomaterials: Revolutionizing Cancer Immunotherapy and Genomics 

Vol 3 | Issue 2 | Apr – Jun 2024                                                                                      Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 41  

clinical trials [48]. The development of nanoparticle systems 

to deliver the CRISPR-Cas9 system to target cells has 

overcome obstacles such as the large molecular weight of the 

Cas9 protein and its low stability against serum enzymes and 

proteins. Additionally, the use of viral carrier systems has been 

shown to provide high efficiency in genome editing.  

While viral vectors have demonstrated significant promise, 

ongoing research and development are focused on addressing 

challenges and further improving their applicability. The field 

of gene therapy continues to see innovative modifications and 

support from the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, 

indicating a continued commitment to advancing viral vector-

based therapy. Therefore, viral vectors, particularly AAVs and 

lentiviruses, remain crucial tools in the landscape of gene 

therapy and genome editing, with ongoing efforts to enhance 

their efficacy and safety for clinical applications [46-48].  

4. Gene Editing in Stem Cells: Stem cells hold immense 

potential for regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies 

Stem cells possess the unique ability to self-renew and 

differentiate into various cell types, making them promising 

candidates for regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies 

[49]. Precisely modifying their genes via CRISPR-Cas9 

unlocks their full therapeutic potential, and biomaterials play a 

crucial role in achieving this effectively. Let's dive deeper into 

recent developmental examples across different delivery 

strategies: 

a. Transfection Reagents: Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs): 

Recent advances involve LNPs modified with cell-specific 

targeting ligands. For instance, researchers conjugated 

folate ligands to LNPs for targeted delivery to pluripotent 

stem cells expressing folate receptors. This led to efficient 

gene editing with minimal off-target effects [48]. 

 

b. Polymer-Peptide Hybrids: Novel synthetic polymers 

with peptide conjugation offer enhanced cellular uptake 

and endosomal escape. A recent study employed chitosan-

based polymers conjugated with cationic peptides for 

CRISPR-Cas9 delivery to mesenchymal stem cells, 

achieving high editing efficiency with improved 

biocompatibility [48,49]. 

 

c. Electroporation Platforms:  

 

 Microfluidic Chips: Researchers are now integrating 

microfluidic chips with temperature control to enhance cell 

viability during electroporation. A recent study used a 

temperature-controlled microfluidic chip for CRISPR-

Cas9 delivery to neural stem cells, demonstrating 

improved cell survival and editing efficiency compared to 

conventional methods [50]. 

 Conductive Hydrogels: Development of hydrogels with 

specific electrical properties allows for localized, tissue-

specific CRISPR-Cas9 delivery. Scientists developed a 

conductive hydrogel scaffold for in vivo delivery to 

cardiac stem cells residing within heart tissue. This 

approach facilitated targeted gene editing with minimal 

impact on surrounding tissues [49,50]. 

 

d. Viral Vectors:  

 

 Engineered AAV Vectors: Adeno-associated viral (AAV) 

vectors are gaining popularity due to their safety and low 

immunogenicity. Recent efforts focus on enhancing their 

targeting capabilities. Researchers engineered AAV 

vectors with stem cell-specific promoters, achieving 

efficient and selective gene editing in human embryonic 

stem cells without harming neighboring cell types [51]. 

 Hybrid Viral Vectors: Combining different viral vectors 

leverages their unique strengths. A recent study used a 

hybrid vector combining AAV and lentiviral vectors, 

achieving sustained and efficient gene editing in 

hematopoietic stem cells with minimal insertional 

mutagenesis [52]. 

 

e. In-vivo Genome Editing: In vivo genome editing holds 

immense promise for treating genetic disorders directly 

within the patient's body [40]. However, delivering 

CRISPR-Cas9 components to target tissues or organs in a 

specific and efficient manner remains a significant 

challenge. Innovative strategies are being developed to 

overcome these challenges and propel the field forward. 

 

f. Targeted Nanoparticles: These miniature cargo ships can 

be engineered to carry CRISPR-Cas9 components and 

adorned with ligands that bind to receptors unique to 

specific tissues. This targeted delivery approach minimizes 

off-target effects and enhances overall efficiency. For 

example, researchers at MIT crafted nanoparticles coated 

with folate ligands, precisely targeting receptors abundant 

on cancer cells, enabling gene editing specifically within 

tumors and laying the groundwork for personalized cancer 

therapies [41,42]. 

 

g. Controlled-Release Scaffolds: These biomaterials 

function as custodians, encapsulating CRISPR-Cas9 

components and releasing them gradually over time. This 

controlled, sustained delivery mechanism ensures 

localized gene editing within the target area, amplifying 

the therapeutic impact. For instance, a biodegradable 

hydrogel scaffold loaded with CRISPR-Cas9 was 

employed to treat Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy, a 

challenging mitochondrial disease affecting the retina. 

This localized editing within the eye demonstrated 

improved vision in animal models, offering promise for 

conditions previously deemed untreatable [20,35,36]. 



Bhat & Shanbhag                                              Biomaterials: Revolutionizing Cancer Immunotherapy and Genomics 

Vol 3 | Issue 2 | Apr – Jun 2024                                                                                      Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 42  

 

h. Engineered Viral Vectors: Repurposed viruses can be 

adeptly delivered into cells, with their capsids (outer 

shells) and promoters (genetic switches) meticulously 

engineered to target specific tissues. This targeted delivery 

strategy ensures that the editing machinery reaches its 

intended destination, minimizing risks and maximizing 

efficacy. For example, scientists modified an AAV vector 

with a muscle-specific promoter, not only delivering 

CRISPR-Cas9 but correcting a mutation causing 

Duchenne muscular dystrophy in muscle cells. The result: 

significant improvements in muscle function observed in 

animal models [48,49]. 

 

i. Beyond Delivery: Researchers are advancing high-fidelity 

Cas9 enzymes and guide RNAs with heightened 

specificity, reducing the risk of unintended edits. 

Strategies involve sustained delivery systems or inducible 

editing approaches to enhance the persistence of gene 

editing. Careful consideration of ethical implications, 

especially concerning germline editing and equitable 

access, is crucial for responsible development [20,28,52]. 

 
Figure 2. In-vivo Gene editing. 

Challenges and future directions in biomaterials for cancer 

immunotherapy and genome editing. 

The development of biomaterial-based therapies presents a 

myriad of complex challenges that necessitate rigorous 

scientific investigation and innovative solutions [53]. 

Foremost among these challenges is the imperative to ensure 

safety and biocompatibility. As these biomaterials interact 

intimately with the patient's immune system and biological 

processes, a comprehensive assessment of their 

biocompatibility is essential to mitigate the risk of adverse 

reactions or immune responses [17,54]. This extends to the 

imperative of long-term evaluation of the effects of 

biomaterials, especially when employed in the context of 

chronic treatments, where potential impacts must be 

thoroughly understood [17,53,54].  

Efficient delivery and precise targeting represent pivotal 

facets of therapeutic success. Achieving optimal outcomes 

hinges on enhancing the delivery efficiency of biomaterials, 

particularly in the often-hostiletumor microenvironments [55]. 

Innovative strategies must be devised to bolster the targeting 

specificity and improve tissue penetration, addressing the 

unique challenges presented by biomaterial-based therapies. 

The potential immunogenicity of certain biomaterials, notably 

viral vectors, poses a substantial concern, potentially limiting 

their effectiveness upon repeated administration [56,57]. 

Therefore, it is imperative to explore avenues for mitigating 

immunogenicity without compromising therapeutic efficacy 

[57]. This calls for the development of novel biomaterials 

engineered to exhibit reduced immunogenic potential or the 

implementation of immune-evasion strategies to enhance their 

clinical applicability [58].  

Off-target effects, a notable challenge in gene editing 

therapies, where CRISPR-Cas9 may inadvertently edit 

unintended genomic sites, necessitate continual refinement of 

the specificity and accuracy of CRISPR-Cas9 systems. This 

ongoing pursuit aims to minimize off-target effects and bolster 

the safety profile of genome editing treatments [59]. Practical 

considerations regarding manufacturing scalability and 

standardization come to the forefront. Ensuring 



Bhat & Shanbhag                                              Biomaterials: Revolutionizing Cancer Immunotherapy and Genomics 

Vol 3 | Issue 2 | Apr – Jun 2024                                                                                      Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 43  

reproducibility, quality, and alignment with regulatory 

standards is imperative to meet the burgeoning demand for 

clinical trials and future commercialization [60]. 

Standardization of manufacturing processes and strict 

adherence to regulatory compliance are pivotal for the 

widespread adoption of biomaterial-based therapies [61].  

Moreover, the vision of personalized medicine, integral to 

both cancer immunotherapy and genome editing, requires the 

seamless integration of biomaterials with patient-specific 

genomic and immunological data [62]. Realizing this ambition 

hinges on advancements in high-throughput sequencing and 

bioinformatics, which are poised to play instrumental roles in 

optimizing biomaterial-based therapies tailored to individual 

patient profiles [63]. Combination therapies that harness the 

synergy between diverse biomaterials, immunotherapies, and 

gene editing strategies hold immense promise for enhancing 

cancer treatment. Nevertheless, unravelling the intricacies of 

optimal combinations and understanding potential interactions 

between various biomaterials and therapies poses a 

multifaceted scientific challenge that demands meticulous 

exploration [64-66]. Lastly, as biomaterial-based therapies 

transition from the realm of research to clinical trials, 

successfully navigating the complex regulatory landscape and 

securing approvals from regulatory agencies emerges as a 

pivotal step [64]. This necessitates collaborative efforts 

encompassing academic researchers, industry partners, and 

regulatory authorities to ensure the safe and efficient 

translation of these pioneering therapies into clinical practice 

[64,65]. 

CONCLUSION 

The combination of biomaterials and breakthrough approaches 

such as cancer immunotherapy and genome editing are 

ushering cancer treatment into a new era. Biomaterials, which 

serve as precision transporters for immune-modulating drugs, 

are meticulously engineered to negotiate the complicated 

tumor microenvironment. Their goal, like that of architects, is 

to encapsulate and distribute therapeutic substances, thereby 

boosting the body's immunological response to cancer with 

precise targeting. This formulation ensures prolonged release 

for optimal treatment outcomes while also reducing systemic 

toxicity. Despite these advances, obstacles remain, particularly 

in biocompatibility and delivery efficiency. Researchers are 

actively overcoming these barriers in order to fully realize the 

revolutionary promise of biomaterials, recognizing the need of 

tailoring treatments to individual genetic profiles for 

personalized medicine. Global impact cancer care could be 

safer and more effective with this individualized approach. A 

thorough understanding of the transformative role that 

biomaterials will play in reshaping cancer care in the future 

and fostering innovation towards safer, more effective, and 

personalized treatment avenues can be gained by critically 

evaluating the current landscape, acknowledging its 

limitations and ongoing challenges, and combining it with 

insights into cutting-edge research. 

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Vol 3 | Issue 2 | Apr – Jun 2024                                                                                      Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 45  

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How to cite this article: Ramdas Bhat1, Preeti Shanbhag. 

Emerging Trends in Biomaterials for Cancer 

Immunotherapy and Genome Editing: A Comprehensive 

Review. Indian J Pharm Drug Studies. 2024; 3(2):37-45. 

Funding: None;                Conflicts of Interest: None Stated 

 


