Abstract: RNA targeting proteins are utilized to provide a robust massively multiplexed CRISPR-based diagnostic by detection in droplets with attomolar sensitivity. Detection of both DNA and RNA with comparable levels of sensitivity at nanoliter volumes can differentiate targets from non-targets based on single base pair differences, with applications in multiple scenarios in human health including, for example, viral detection, bacterial strain typing, and sensitive genotyping.

Abstract: Methods for generating primers and/or probes for use in analyzing a sample which may comprise a pathogen target sequence are provided, including identifying pan-viral sets of primers and/or probes.

Abstract: The embodiments disclosed herein utilize RNA targeting effectors to provide a robust CRISPR-based diagnostic for hemorrhagic fever virus applications. Embodiments disclosed herein can differentiate between hemorrhagic fever viruses that present with similar symptoms, as well as between strains of a hemorrhagic fever virus.

Abstract: Provided herein is a nucleic acid detection system comprising: a CRISPR system comprising an effector protein and one or more guide RNAs designed to bind to corresponding target molecules; an RNA-based masking construct; and optionally, nucleic acid amplification reagents to amplify target RNA molecules in a sample. In another aspect, the embodiments provide a polypeptide detection system comprising: a CRISPR system comprising an effector protein and one or more guide RNAs designed to bind a trigger RNA, an RNA-based masking construct; and one or more detection aptamers comprising a masked RNA polymerase promoter binding site or a masked primer binding site. In some embodiments, the system may be used to detect viruses in samples.

Abstract: The present invention offers a new approach for highly multiplexed, programmable antiviral therapies that directly target viral RNA, and can be flexibly adapted to target novel viruses or emerging outbreak pathogens. Class 2, type VI CRISPR system-based therapies can be used in combination with existing antiviral compounds for viruses where such compounds exist, either by increasing their efficacy or by preventing the evolution of specific drug resistance mutations. Perhaps most excitingly, if a virus evolves resistance to a specific guide RNA sequence, it is easy to switch to a different guide RNA sequence, or to design a new guide sequence to target the new mutation. Such approaches should prevent the widespread development of resistance to Class 2, type VI CRISPR system-based therapies.