# NIH Reporter #1DP2AI192576-01

CRISPR diagnostic for rapid pathogen detection in the Emergency Department

**Recipient:** University of Alabama at Birmingham

**Award Amount:** $433,298.00
**Ceiling:** $433,298.00

**Awarded:** September 16, 2026

**Identifier:** 1DP2AI192576-01

This award funds the development of a rapid CRISPR-based diagnostic tool for detecting bacterial RNA in sepsis patients within one hour, aiming to improve antibiotic treatment decisions and reduce unnecessary use.

### Description

Develop an amplification-free, Cas13a-based species-agnostic bacterial RNA detection method with a sample-to-result time of less than 1 hour to guide clinical decision-making for antibiotic administration in sepsis or septic shock patients. The project includes improving CRISPR diagnostic design principles, Cas13a protein engineering, and novel sample preparation protocols to reduce assay interference, aiming to impact initial sepsis management by enabling targeted antibiotic use.

[View original record](https://reporter.nih.gov/search/IgE1H2ioLUOz0qmA4MDg0Q/project-details/11212461)