Cellectis Inc., a biotechnology company, is set to present groundbreaking research on non-viral gene editing at the upcoming ASGCT annual meeting in New Orleans, scheduled for mid-May 2025.

Their findings indicate that non-viral methods, particularly the combination of TALEN® and single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), facilitate efficient gene insertion while enhancing the viability and specificity of T-cells and hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs).

This innovative approach leverages ssDNA for payload delivery, which could significantly improve gene insertion efficacy and promote cellular health across various cell types.

The company showcased TALEN®-mediated non-viral transgene insertion techniques, which are aimed at enhancing both cellular and gene therapies.

In addition, Cellectis introduced TALE base editors (TALEB), which are designed to edit DNA sequences by converting cytosine to thymine without causing any DNA strand breaks.

Research suggests that utilizing circular ssDNA for gene editing provides distinct advantages over traditional viral methods, ensuring better maintenance of HSPC fitness and more stable gene editing outcomes.

Dr. Beatriz Aranda Orgilles from Cellectis emphasized that these gene-editing innovations hold the potential to develop next-generation therapies for cancer, autoimmune diseases, and monogenic disorders.