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Updated: Jul 8, 2026

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High-throughput Detection of Respiratory Pathogens in Animal Specimens by Nanoscale PCR
Published on: November 28, 2016
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Multiplexed detection of respiratory pathogens using a portable device combining a CREM strategy
Xijuan Gu1,2, Anli Pan1, Lingwei Wu1
1Nantong Key Laboratory of Public Health and Medical Analysis, School of Public Health, Nantong University Nantong Jiangsu 226019 P. R. China ylqin@ntu.edu.cn.
Chemical Science
|October 18, 2024
Summary
This study introduces a new CRISPR-based method for rapid, visual detection of multiple respiratory pathogens. The engineered CRISPR RNA (en-crRNA) system achieves high accuracy for on-site diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Diagnostics
Background:
- Accurate detection of respiratory pathogens is vital for effective treatment.
- Current methods can be time-consuming and require specialized laboratory equipment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a rapid, multiplex, and visual detection method for respiratory pathogens.
- To utilize engineered CRISPR RNA (en-crRNA) and Cas12a for enhanced detection capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Designed en-crRNA with a fluorophore/quencher-labeled DNA reporter.
- Activated Cas12a trans-cleavage activity for pathogen detection.
- Integrated the system with a smartphone-connected portable device for visual readout.
Main Results:
- Simultaneously identified distinct respiratory pathogens with a detection limit of 10^2 copies/μL.
- Achieved visual discrimination of targets using the portable device.
- Demonstrated high specificity and accuracy (AUC of 0.98) compared to qPCR in clinical samples.
Conclusions:
- The en-crRNA and Cas12a system offers a promising approach for rapid, specific, and on-site multiplex pathogen detection.
- This technology has potential for improved clinical diagnosis and management of respiratory infections.
- The developed portable device facilitates accessible and efficient point-of-care testing.

