A Reaction- Diffusion-Based Approach for Nucleic Acid Quantification

ABSTRACTThe recent emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused a largeglobal outbreak and become a major global public health concern. It is still spreading rapidly to many countriesdespite extensive implementation of control measures. So far, SARS-CoV-2 has affected more than 2,544,792patients and resulted in more than 175,694 deaths all over the world. Rapid and accurate detection of novelcoronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), plays a crucialrole in facilitating early intervention and reducing rapid transmission of the virus. Reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based molecular detection is highly sensitive and specific method andhas been widely used for early diagnostics of the COVID-19 disease. However, it relies on expensiveinstruments, and well-trained personnel, which are not suitable for point of care settings such as drive-thrutesting sites, home care, small clinics with limited infrastructure and resources. Here, we propose to developand validate a rapid, low cost, CRISPR-based molecular detection technology for early diagnostics of theCOVID-19 disease at the point of care. To achieve the goal, we have assembled a highly interdisciplinaryresearch team (e.g., bioengineer, clinician, virologist and industry partner). We will use this supplementalproject to generate preliminary data to: i) develop and optimize our point of care diagnostic technology forSARS-CoV-2 detection, and ii) evaluate and validate the clinical feasibility of our technology for earlydiagnostics of the COVID-19 disease by using COVID-19 patient samples. The pilot-test data obtained in thisproject will provide a basis for future large-scale research and commercial applications. If successful, suchsimple and rapid diagnostic technology will open a new pathway for cost-effective, molecular detection of theCOVID-19 disease at the point of care.