CRISPR-Mediated Cleavage of Enzyme-Oligonucleotide Conjugates for Detection of Target Analytes NU 2021-068 INVENTORS
SHORT DESCRIPTION
This technology leverages CRISPR-mediated cleavage of enzyme-oligonucleotide conjugates to enable sensitive, colorimetric detection of target analytes without the need for specialized equipment or stringent temperature conditions. BACKGROUND
Current diagnostic platforms, such as PCR and ELISA, often require complex, multi-step processes, specific temperature conditions, and advanced instrumentation, limiting their use to centralized facilities. This invention addresses these limitations by providing a simplified, point-of-care diagnostic solution that can detect nucleic acid and non-nucleic acid analytes efficiently and effectively. ABSTRACT
Northwestern researchers have developed a novel diagnostic strategy utilizing CRISPR-mediated cleavage of surface-bound enzyme-oligonucleotide conjugates. Upon the presence of a target analyte, a nucleic acid sequence binds to a CRISPR RNAse or DNAse, such as Cas13 or Cas12, pre-complexed with a guide RNA. This interaction activates the CRISPR enzyme, leading to the cleavage of the conjugates and the release of enzymes into solution. The subsequent treatment with an enzyme substrate produces a chromogenic, fluorogenic, or luminescent signal, which is directly proportional to the target concentration. This approach facilitates rapid and routine detection of viral and bacterial infections, disease biomarkers, and monitoring of disease progression or therapeutic response. APPLICATIONS
ADVANTAGES
IP STATUS Issued US Patent US20240150817A1
PUBLICATION
Samanta, D., Ebrahimi, S.B., Ramani, N., Mirkin, C.A. Enhancing CRISPR-CAS-Mediated Detection of Nucleic Acids and Non-nucleic Acid Targets Using Enzyme-Labeled Reporters. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2022, 144, 35, 16310-16315.