CRISPR-dCas9-Mediated PTEN Activation via Tumor Cell Membrane-Coated Nanoplatform Enhances Sensitivity to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer

EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) have garnered substantial clinical success in treating nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. However, the inevitable emergence of drug resistance, frequently attributed to activation, mutation, or deletion of multiple signaling pathways, poses a significant challenge. Notably, the loss of PTEN protein expression has emerged as a pivotal mechanism fostering resistance in EGFR mutant lung cancers. Consequently, strategies aimed at upregulating PTEN expression hold great promise for restoring drug sensitivity. Leveraging the versatility, precision, and efficacy of nuclease-deactivated Cas9 (dCas9) as a transcriptional activator, we designed a CRISPR-dCas9 system to stimulate PTEN expression. To further enhance target specificity and drug delivery efficiency, we innovatively harnessed the tumor cell membrane (CCM) as a homologous targeting surface coating for our vector, thereby creating a targeted activation nanoplatform. Comprehensive in vitro and in vivo evaluations demonstrated that the synergistic interplay between gefitinib and the CRISPR-dCas9 system significantly enhanced drug sensitivity. The finding underscores the potential of our approach in addressing the issue of lung cancer resistance, offering a promising avenue for personalized and effective cancer therapies.