High-Throughput CRISPR–Cas13 SARS-CoV-2 Test

Abstract Background The ability to control the spread of COVID-19 continues to be hampered by a lack of rapid, scalable, and easily deployable diagnostic solutions. Methods We developed a diagnostic method based on CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) that can deliver sensitive, specific, and high-throughput detection of Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The assay utilizes SHERLOCK (Specific High-sensitivity Enzymatic Reporter unLOCKing) for the qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and may be performed directly on a swab or saliva sample without nucleic acid extraction. The assay uses a 384-well format and provides results in