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2 clusters · 4 sources · 5 days · First seen · Last updated

CRISPR enzyme engineering for RNA virus detection

Overview

Researchers at Rice University have engineered a modified Cas13a CRISPR enzyme designed to improve the detection of RNA viruses. By utilizing cryo-electron microscopy to analyze the enzyme’s three-dimensional structure, the team increased sensitivity for detecting RNA by a hundredfold while maintaining stability under harsh conditions, such as high temperatures.

The enhanced enzyme is capable of targeting various viruses, including HIV, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, Ebola, Zika, hepatitis C, and respiratory syncytial virus. Initial tests successfully identified synthetic, noninfectious HIV samples, indicating potential for integration into commercial diagnostic tools like RT-qPCR and lateral flow tests.

Entities

University of São Paulo · MetaSUB · Rice University · Yang Gao

Timeline

  1. [HEALTH] 2 sources
    Scientific breakthroughs enhance viral detection and mapping

    Scientists have developed a CRISPR-based tool 100 times more effective at detecting HIV and mapped over 40,000 previously unknown viruses across 102 global cities.

  2. [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Rice University engineers CRISPR enzyme for enhanced RNA virus detection

    Rice University researchers have engineered a Cas13a CRISPR enzyme that is 100 times more sensitive at detecting RNA, potentially improving diagnostics for HIV, SARS-CoV-2, and other viral infections.

Sources

geekweek.interia.pl · insideprecisionmedicine.com · naukawpolsce.pap.pl · world-today-news.com