Next Generation Diagnostic Technology: CRISPR System and Its Application in Molecular Diagnostics

Abstract:

As an emerging tool for gene editing and regulation, CRISPR system is characterized by its high specificity, sensitivity and flexibility. In addition to its important role in gene editing and modification, it also has a promising prospect in infectious disease diagnosis, environmental monitoring and food safety. With the intensive research of CRISPR/Cas system, a variety of simple and sensitive biosensing platforms have been established through its high specificity in identifying target sequences and trans-cleavage capabilities. The shortcomings of traditional methods in terms of operation, sensitivity, specificity and detection cycle have been addressed. In this review, we will focus on the features and mechanisms of the most widely used class 2 CRISPR/Cas systems and summarize CRISPR/Cas based biosensing strategies and future directions for nucleic acids, proteins and small molecules.