CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) genome editing has been hyped for years. But the promise of CRISPR technology has yet to be fulfilled. That could change in the coming years, though. Major genomics breakthroughs -- and potentially explosive growth for some stocks -- could be on the way.
CRISPR companies forging the future
Several companies are using CRISPR to edit human genomes in an attempt to treat (and even cure) genetic diseases. Their therapies either use an ex vivo approach or an in vivo approach. With ex vivo therapies, genes are edited outside the body.
But CRISPR's use isn't limited to genetic diseases. Several gene-editing companies are also targeting various types of cancer. In particular, CRISPR is being used to develop chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies, where immune cells are genetically engineered to attack specific tumors.
In addition, some companies are using CRISPR for screening (which shouldn't be confused with genetic testing). With CRISPR screening, genes are edited in a way that makes them inoperative. CRISPR screening enables companies to identify which genes perform specific functions, which is important in the development of drugs.
Four best CRISPR stocks to buy
Not every investor will want to buy CRISPR gene-editing stocks. These stocks tend to be highly risky and volatile. However, for aggressive investors who aren't risk-averse, here are four of the best CRISPR stocks to consider:
| Name and ticker | Market cap | Dividend yield | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beam Therapeutics (NASDAQ:BEAM) | $3.6 billion | 0.00% | Biotechnology |
| CRISPR Therapeutics (NASDAQ:CRSP) | $5.4 billion | 0.00% | Biotechnology |
| Caribou Biosciences (NASDAQ:CRBU) | $150.5 million | 0.00% | Biotechnology |
| Intellia Therapeutics (NASDAQ:NTLA) | $1.4 billion | 0.00% | Biotechnology |
1. Beam Therapeutics
NASDAQ: BEAM
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NASDAQ: CRSP
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CRISPR Therapeutics (CRSP +1.18%) is the only CRISPR-focused biotech stock that has advanced beyond clinical-stage development. The company and its partner, Vertex Pharmaceuticals (VRTX -1.13%), received U.S. regulatory approvals for Casgevy in December 2023 for the treatment of sickle cell disease and in January 2024 for the treatment of transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia.
It's evaluating two experimental CAR T-cell therapies in clinical trials. CTX112 targets CD19+ B-cell malignancies, and CTX131 targets solid tumors and blood cancers. Other pipeline programs for CRISPR Therapeutics include CTX310 and CTX320, which target cardiovascular disease, and CTX211, which is used for treating type 1 diabetes.
The drugmaker is also exploring the use of CRISPR in several preclinical programs. It's researching in vivo therapies targeting rare genetic diseases, including cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Although all CRISPR stocks are risky, CRISPR Therapeutics is arguably less risky than most. It has a strong cash position, primarily due to its partnership with Vertex, with an approved product on the market.
3. Caribou Biosciences
NASDAQ: CRBU
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4. Intellia Therapeutics
NASDAQ: NTLA
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How to invest in CRISPR stocks
Follow these steps to invest in CRISPR stocks:
- Open your brokerage app: Log in to your brokerage account where you handle your investments.
- Search for the stock: Enter the ticker or company name into the search bar to bring up the stock's trading page.
- Decide how many shares to buy: Consider your investment goals and how much of your portfolio you want to allocate to this stock.
- Select order type: Choose between a market order to buy at the current price or a limit order to specify the maximum price you're willing to pay.
- Submit your order: Confirm the details and submit your buy order.
- Review your purchase: Check your portfolio to ensure your order was filled as expected and adjust your investment strategy accordingly.
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Benefits and risks of investing in CRISPR companies
The benefits of investing in CRISPR companies include:
- High long-term growth potential.
- An opportunity to get in on a new and exciting medical technology.
- Your investment reflects a vision of a better world where more diseases can be treated and potentially even cured.
However, there are also several risks associated with investing in CRISPR companies, such as:
- High volatility.
- Significant uncertainty related to clinical trials and commercial success.
- Increased competition (including non-CRISPR companies).
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