News — CRISPR for public health
Solving the TB Puzzle: How CRISPR is Powering Rapid, Accurate Point-of-Care Testing
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Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be one of the deadliest infectious diseases on the planet, despite decades of medical advancements. Caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, TB infects millions annually and often hides in asymptomatic carriers, making early detection both essential and difficult. Traditional diagnostic methods—like sputum smear microscopy and culture—are slow, require specialized infrastructure, and can miss early-stage infections. This lag in detection leads to delayed treatment and increased transmission, particularly in low-resource settings.
Now, a revolutionary biotech tool is turning the tide: CRISPR. Originally known for its gene-editing capabilities, CRISPR is being repurposed to solve one of medicine's most persistent puzzles—fast, accurate TB detection right at the point of care. By leveraging its highly specific molecular recognition abilities, CRISPR-based diagnostics are enabling clinicians to identify TB in minutes instead of weeks. This article explores how this technology is reshaping the future of TB diagnostics, making testing more accessible, affordable, and responsive.