A new paper-based test for detecting cervical cancer using CRISPR technology

Low-Cost CRISPR-on-Paper for Cervical Cancer Screening at the Point of Care

NIH-funded research University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-11080323

This study is working on a simple and affordable test that can quickly check for high-risk HPV, which can lead to cervical cancer, so that it can be used right in your doctor's office or clinic without needing fancy equipment.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Farmington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11080323 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to create a low-cost, easy-to-use diagnostic tool for cervical cancer screening that can be used directly at the point of care. It focuses on developing a paper-based platform that utilizes CRISPR technology to detect high-risk HPV types, which are responsible for cervical cancer. The test is designed to be simple and rapid, eliminating the need for expensive laboratory equipment and complex procedures. By using a hand warmer to generate heat, the test can be performed without any electronic devices, making it accessible in low-resource settings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women in low-resource settings who are at risk for cervical cancer and require accessible screening options.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for cervical cancer or those who have already been diagnosed with the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve early detection of cervical cancer, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using CRISPR technology for diagnostics, indicating that this approach could be effective, though the specific application of CRISPR-on-paper for cervical cancer screening is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Farmington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions anti-cancer researchburden of diseaseCancer Cause
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.