Using gene scissors to detect diseases
(PHYSorg.com Chemistry)

CRISPR/Cas technology can do more than alter genes. A research team at the University of Freiburg is using what are known as gene scissors-which scientists can use to edit genetic material-in order to better diagnose diseases such as cancer. In a study, the researchers introduce a microfluidic chip which recognizes small fragments of RNA, indicating a specific type of cancer more rapidly and precisely than the techniques available up to now. The results are recently published in the scientific journal Advanced Materials.