# An instrument-free malaria diagnostic

> **NIH NIH R43** · BIOLOGICAL MIMETICS, INC. · 2024 · $297,761

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
We propose to develop a sensitive, rapid, and affordable CRISPR-based diagnostic test for malaria
parasites. The assay will be simple to run, require no instrumentation or advanced training, and
be suitable for resource-limited regions. In the Phase I, we will design and optimize our multi-
chambered FAST-CRISPR diagnostic using cultured parasites and plasmid DNA targets. Later in
the Phase I or in follow-up studies, we will provide diagnostic kits to laboratories in endemic
regions for beta testing. In Specific Aim 1, we will optimize the selection of oligos used in
isothermal amplification of targeted regions and optimize the lysis process to expose the DNA.
Because reactants from one step of the process flow into the next chamber, we will ensure that
buffer compositions are compatible. In Specific Aim 2, we will optimize the CRISPR/Cas12a
reactions for activation of the endonuclease activity upon sensing the target sequences. During
this Aim, we will assess the use of multiple targets and determine assay specificity and sensitivity.
In Specific Aim 3, we will develop the configuration of the FAST device and plan future
manufacturing scale-up.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10917628
- **Project number:** 1R43AI179513-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** BIOLOGICAL MIMETICS, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** GREGORY John TOBIN
- **Activity code:** R43 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $297,761
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-06-01 → 2026-05-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10917628

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10917628, An instrument-free malaria diagnostic (1R43AI179513-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10917628. Licensed CC0.

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