Genomics and Applied Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 264-275 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/gab 272 Additionally, the potential for off-target effects in gene editing necessitates thorough preclinical testing and validation to ensure that unintended genetic changes do not compromise the safety or efficacy of the modified organisms (Li et al., 2019). The involvement of biosafety and biosecurity communities in the regulatory process is essential to address these challenges and develop comprehensive guidelines that mitigate risks while enabling scientific progress. International collaboration and the establishment of best practices are crucial to fostering a safe research environment and preventing the misuse of gene editing technologies (DiEuliis and Giordano, 2017; Pillai and Raybould, 2023). 9 Concluding Remarks Gene editing tools, particularly CRISPR/Cas9, have significantly advanced our understanding of African swine fever virus (ASFV) pathogenesis. These tools have enabled precise modifications of the ASFV genome, facilitating the study of viral gene functions and interactions. For instance, the use of CRISPR/Cas9 has allowed for the efficient deletion of specific ASFV genes, such as those involved in immune evasion and virulence, providing insights into their roles in the virus's life cycle and pathogenicity. Additionally, the development of multiplex-crRNA strategies has enhanced the sensitivity of ASFV detection, demonstrating the potential of gene editing tools in diagnostic applications. The future of ASFV research through gene editing holds promising potential for several breakthroughs. One of the primary goals is the development of effective vaccines. By identifying and deleting virulence genes, researchers aim to create attenuated virus strains that can serve as vaccine candidates. For example, the deletion of the CD2v and C-type lectin-like genes from ASFV has been explored, although it highlighted the complexity and unpredictability of genetic manipulations. Another long-term goal is to enhance the precision and efficiency of gene editing techniques to minimize off-target effects, as seen in other applications of gene editing technologies. Furthermore, the integration of CRISPR/Cas systems in diagnostic platforms could revolutionize ASFV detection, making it faster and more accurate. Continued research and collaboration are crucial in the fight against ASFV. The complexity of the virus and its significant impact on global swine production necessitate a multidisciplinary approach, combining virology, immunology, and biotechnology. Collaborative efforts can accelerate the development of innovative solutions, such as gene-edited vaccines and advanced diagnostic tools. The insights gained from gene editing studies not only enhance our understanding of ASFV but also contribute to the broader field of viral pathogenesis and gene therapy. As we move forward, it is essential to maintain a focus on safety, efficacy, and ethical considerations in the application of gene editing technologies. Acknowledgments Thank you to the reviewers for their rigorous academic approach in reviewing this study’s manuscript and offering many constructive suggestions. Conflict of Interest Disclosure The authors affirm that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. References Adli M., 2018, The CRISPR tool kit for genome editing and beyond, Nature Communications, 9(1): 1911. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-018-04252-2 Bhardwaj A., and Nain V., 2021, TALENs-an indispensable tool in the era of CRISPR: a mini review, Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 19(1): 125. https://doi.org/10.1186/s43141-021-00225-z Bortesi L., and Fischer R., 2015, The CRISPR/Cas9 system for plant genome editing and beyond, Biotechnology Advances, 33(1): 41-52. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biotechadv.2014.12.006 Bosch-Camós L., López E., Collado J., Navas M., Blanco-Fuertes M., Pina-Pedrero S., Accensi F., Salas M., Mundt E., Nikolin V., and Rodríguez F., 2021, M448R and MGF505-7R: two African swine fever virus antigens commonly recognized by ASFV-specific T-Cells and with protective potential, Vaccines, 9(5): 508. https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines9050508
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