100 + INNOVATIONS
Point-of-Care CRISPR Test for Precision Diagnostics
A portable CRISPR test delivering rapid, accurate and low-cost detection for cancer and infections
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Research Project
Challenge
Reliable DNA and RNA tests typically require centralised laboratories, costly machines and trained staff. This delays results, limiting timely cancer care, outbreak control and environmental monitoring. The project addresses the urgent need for rapid, affordable and accurate molecular tests that can be performed directly at the point of care.
Solution
The biosensor harnesses a CRISPR-Cas12a system enhanced by circular DNA nanostructures to trigger autocatalytic amplification without PCR. This enables minute-scale detection of trace genetic material using simple test strips. The platform is adaptable for use in oncology, infectious disease and environmental applications. Implementation is driven through startup commercialisation, industry licensing and integration with existing healthcare systems.
Target customers / end-users
• clinicians and oncologists using liquid biopsy tools
• public health agencies tracking infectious diseases
• industry partners producing diagnostic kits.
Progress
• AU $ 10M in research translation funding / grant support
• partnerships with Biopoint Pty Ltd and Avicena System, both of which are licensed for commercialisation
• completed pilot with Biopoint Pty Ltd demonstrating feasibility.
Lab validated
TRL 5
Healthy Living
The project created a pointof-care CRISPR biosensor that eliminates PCR. It enables ultrasensitive detection of cancer mutations, infectious diseases and environmental DNA. Validated in Nature Communications and supported by industry partnerships, patents and major funding, this platform is advancing toward clinical translation and commercial rollout.
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