A Scalable, Easy-to-Deploy Protocol for Cas13-Based Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Genetic Material.

TitleA Scalable, Easy-to-Deploy Protocol for Cas13-Based Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Genetic Material.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2021
AuthorsRauch JN, Valois E, Solley SC, Braig F, Lach RS, Audouard M, Ponce-Rojas JCarlos, Costello MS, Baxter NJ, Kosik KS*, Arias C*, Acosta-Alvear D*, Wilson MZ*
JournalJ Clin Microbiol
Volume59
Issue4
Date Published2021 03 19
ISSN1098-660X
Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has created massive demand for widespread, distributed tools for detecting SARS-CoV-2 genetic material. The hurdles to scalable testing include reagent and instrument accessibility, availability of highly trained personnel, and large upfront investment. Here, we showcase an orthogonal pipeline we call CREST (Cas13-based, rugged, equitable, scalable testing) that addresses some of these hurdles. Specifically, CREST pairs commonplace and reliable biochemical methods (PCR) with low-cost instrumentation, without sacrificing detection sensitivity. By taking advantage of simple fluorescence visualizers, CREST allows a binary interpretation of results. CREST may provide a point-of-care solution to increase the distribution of COVID-19 surveillance.

DOI10.1128/JCM.02402-20
Alternate JournalJ Clin Microbiol
PubMed ID33478979