New CRISPR-based test for Covid-19 could be a simple, cheap at-home diagnostic, scientists say | STAT News

The McGovern Institute at MIT and the Broad Institute are teaming up to repurpose the genome-editing tool CRISPR to test for the coronavirus. The new testing method would be easier, done at home, and can detect the virus from as little as 100 particles. This method also requires less chemicals and is simpler, something needed during the shortage of testing kits and supplies. Currently the test is still only used for research purposes until the Food and Drug Administration approves it. Biologist Feng Zhang and his team have announced however, that they are speaking with the FDA in hopes of receiving an ‘emergency use authorization.’ The FDA has recently used EUAs to fast-track experimental coronavirus treatments.

Source: https://www.statnews.com/2020/05/05/crispr-covid-19-test-could-be-simple-cheap-at-home-diagnostic/