Chain hybridization-based CRISPR-lateral flow assay enables accurate gene visual detection.

Visualized gene detection based on the CRISPR-Cas12/CRISPR-Cas13 technology and lateral flow assay device (CRISPR-LFA) has shown great potential in point-of-care testing sector. Current CRISPR-LFA methodology mainly utilizes conventional immuno-based LFA test strips, which could visualize whether the reporter probe is trans-cleaved by Cas protein, indicating the target positive detection. However, conventional CRISPR-LFA usually produces false-positive results in target negative assay.

Immunological and inflammatory profiles during acute and convalescent phases of severe/ critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Background: The 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic poses a huge threat internationally; however, the role of the host immune system in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 is not well understood.

Methods: Cytokine and chemokine levels and characterisation of immune cell subsets from 20 COVID-19 cases after hospital admission (17 critically ill and 3 severe patients) and 16 convalescent patients were determined using a multiplex immunoassay and flow cytometry, respectively.

Results: IP-10, MCP-1, MIG, IL-6, and IL-10 levels were significantly higher in acute severe/critically ill patients with COVID-19, whereas were normal in patients who had reached convalescence.