Applications of CRISPR-based Lateral Flow Assays in Medicine

Abstract

Due to the constant development of medicine, CRISPR-based lateral flow assays (LFAs) have become a promising technique for detecting various diseases and pathogens. A lot of researches concerning with CRISPR-Cas have been done. Its performance would be enhanced when it was combined with LFAs. In this way, a simple, rapid, and cost-effective diagnostic test could be achieved. This work points out the applications of CRISPR-based LFAs in medicine, specifically in virus detection and bacterial detection. In terms of virus detection, this review focuses on detecting SARS-CoV-2, HBV, and EBV. In terms of bacterial detection, this review highlights the detection of Salmonella, Leptospira, and Staphylococcus aureus. These assays are all rapid, accurate, simple, time-saving, and cost-effective. Despite the advantages of CRISPR-based LFAs, there are also limitations and challenges that need to be addressed, which are mainly centered on the sensitivity and target range of current assays. To overcome those limitations, future directions should focus on areas such as multiplexing, integration with digital technologies, point-of-care testing in situations with limited resources, and the potential for CRISPR-based therapeutics.