CRISPR-based diagnostic platform detects ASF in 20 minutes

Researchers developed sCRAM, a simple ASF test with 100% specificity, enabling quick on-site detection and stronger disease surveillance.

Researchers from China’s Shanxi Agricultural University and Capital Medical University developed a diagnostic platform called sCRAM. It combines multienzyme isothermal amplification with CRISPR-Cas12a, enabling ASF detection in a single tube. Results appear under UV light or through lateral flow strips, making the process simple and suitable for field use.

ASF remains a major threat to swine production, with nearly 100% mortality in pigs and no effective vaccines available. Early detection is vital, and sCRAM’s speed and reliability could help farmers respond before outbreaks spread. The platform’s design emphasizes accessibility, ensuring that even resource-limited areas can benefit from rapid testing.

Accuracy supports field deployment

The team tested sCRAM on 111 simulated and clinical samples, including blood, plasma, and swabs. Results showed 100% concordance with qPCR under UV readout and 98.2% accuracy with lateral flow strips. Importantly, the test demonstrated 100% specificity, with no cross-reactivity against other swine pathogens.

These findings highlight sCRAM’s potential for on-site monitoring, especially in rural areas with limited laboratory access. By removing complex extraction steps, the tool reduces preparation time and makes ASF testing more accessible. Farmers can use the test without specialized training, making it practical for everyday surveillance.