Revolutionizing virus detection: the power of AI and CRISPR

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, scientists and researchers have been tirelessly working to develop innovative and accurate tests to identify the presence of viruses. One breakthrough technology that has emerged is the combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and CRISPR, which has revolutionized virus detection.

In this interview, the leading scientist Prof. Piyush Jain explains their findings of AI and CRISPR and explores how these technologies are transforming the landscape of diagnostic testing.

Prof. Jain, what is special about the test procedure you have developed?

Jain: Imagine a test that can accurately identify not only the presence of viruses such as hepatitis C or COVID-19 but also provide results within minutes. This is precisely what the AI and CRISPR-based test offers. By utilizing the power of AI, we have developed a platform that enables the detection of any pathogen or genomic sequence variation. This technology can be applied to viruses, bacteria, genetic diseases, and even cancer. With its high accuracy and speed, this test has the potential to revolutionize the field of diagnostic testing.

How exactly does it work?

Jain: To comprehend the significance of the AI and CRISPR-based test, it is essential to grasp the underlying science. The test combines two fundamental components: protein engineering and a simple test for nucleic acid. Protein engineering involves modifying the structure of proteins to enhance their stability and function at high temperatures. By using AI-based tools, we can predict where to make changes in the protein structure to improve its heat resistance. This innovation enables the development of proteins that can withstand temperatures of up to 65 degrees Celsius, allowing them to combine with other diagnostic technologies that work at the same temperature making them ideal for simple and accurate diagnostic testing.

To what extent does artificial intelligence help you with the process?

Jain: The integration of CRISPR technology with AI is a game-changer in the world of virus detection. CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) is a revolutionary gene-editing tool derived from bacteria. It enables scientists to precisely target and modify specific DNA sequences. By incorporating AI into the mix, we can predict protein folding and identify where changes need to be made to enhance thermostability. This combination empowers scientists to engineer proteins that remain active even at high temperatures, allowing for accurate virus detection.

What is your goal? What do you want to achieve?

Jain: The ultimate goal of the AI and CRISPR-based test is to make virus detection accessible to individuals in their own homes. While the technology has already been approved for lab-based testing, the challenge lies in developing inexpensive devices that can be used at home. Companies are working to create portable and affordable devices that can conduct the test efficiently. Once these devices are available, individuals will have the ability to perform rapid and accurate virus detection in the comfort of their own homes, empowering them to take control of their health.

How will this technology develop in the future?

Jain: Although an exact timeline for the availability of the AI and CRISPR-based test for home use is uncertain, the technology is already making strides in the field of diagnostic testing. As companies work towards FDA approval and the development of affordable devices, the potential of this technology to transform virus detection cannot be overstated. With AI and CRISPR paving the way, the future of virus detection holds promise for more efficient, accurate, and accessible testing methods. Since it is a platform technology, it can be easily employed for detecting any DNA or RNA or changes in them. This will open numerous biomedical applications ranging from diagnosing diseases in humans, animals, and plants to monitoring pathogens and contaminants in the environment.