PATHLOCK

PATHLOCK

PATHLOCK

Kit for rapid detection of Covid-19 in mobile clinics and community health centres, based on the CRISPR-Cas technology

PATHLOCK
Main use

second line detection

Reaction time

less than one hour

Auxiliary equipment required

minimal

Training required

minimal

Pathlock will provide results in less than one hour and with minimal laboratory equipment. It is based on an innovative genetic technology called CRISPR-Cas, inspired by the bacteria’s defence against viruses. The system is molecular seek-and-destroy machinery for specifically detecting viral RNAs. For Pathlock, it has been engineered CRISPR-Cas to recognise the SARS-CoV-2 RNA and generate a signal when it has been cut. An operator mixes the sample with a solution containing the reagents and reads the result on a dipstick or a cartridge similar to those used for pregnancy tests. This requires minimal training. The Pathlock’s accuracy is expected to be as high as or higher than the current RT-PCR golden standard. It will be suitable for second-line detection in field laboratories and mobile clinics, without the need of specialised centres.

Watch the video presenting Pathlock