CRISPR Gene Editing and Nanopore Sensing Technology Could Speed up Pathogen Detection

A new study published in Biosensors and Bioelectronics reveals a groundbreaking technique that combines CRISPR gene editing and nanopore sensing technology to detect pathogens like mpox at an accelerated pace. This research from Pennsylvania State University represents a significant step towards developing rapid tests suitable for point-of-care use.

A Faster Test for Pathogens

Currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends lab-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing for mpox, also known as monkeypox. However, the need for faster tests for community use has prompted the organization to share a target profile for a more efficient test. The team at Pennsylvania State University has responded to this by utilizing CRISPR gene editing to expedite and simplify viral detection.

How the Technique Works

The researchers developed a genetic sequence merged with a reporter to specifically target mpox. The key players in this process are the programmable CRISPR RNA and the Cas12a enzyme. Their combined efforts lead to the splitting of the reporter into fragments for further analysis through nanopore sensors, ultimately enabling the detection of the virus.

A Step Towards Point-of-Care Testing

To avoid the high energy requirements of PCR, the scientists employed recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) for pre-amplification. This makes the technique more suitable for point-of-care testing. The RPA assay successfully completed pre-amplification within 20 minutes and achieved an impressive limit of detection of 19 copies in a 50-μL reaction system. Integrating RPA into the CRISPR reaction further lowered the limit of detection.

Exceeding WHO Standards

The limit of detection achieved through this innovative technique falls below the level targeted by the WHO. Depending on the viral load, the test can detect the target within a time range of 32 to 55 minutes. Although the need for mpox testing has decreased over the past 18 months, the potential of this technology extends beyond this particular pathogen. The electronic nature and miniaturization possibilities of the RPA-SCAN system pave the way for the diagnosis of various infectious pathogens at the point of care.

This breakthrough in CRISPR gene editing and nanopore sensing technology opens up new avenues for the detection and diagnosis of pathogens. With its potential for rapid point-of-care testing, this technique represents a major advancement in the field of infectious disease research.

Analyst comment

Positive news: The development of a test combining CRISPR gene editing and nanopore sensing technology accelerates detection of mpox and other pathogens, bringing us closer to fast tests suitable for point-of-care use. The limit of detection is below the WHO target. The technology also has the potential to diagnose other infectious pathogens at the point of care.