Genetic testing is a powerful diagnostic tool that accurately  identifies viruses, bacteria and even specific genes, such as the genes that  make bacteria resistant to antibiotics. CRISPR-based diagnostic tools are chiefly known for their use in gene editing, a groundbreaking discovery honored with the 2020 Nobel Prize in chemistry. However, these systems can  also be used to diagnose genetic conditions quickly and easily without  compromising on specificity.

Since CRISPR-based devices are compact and do not require special expertise or equipment, they are potentially highly suitable for use on long space missions on board the ISS or on future missions to the  moon or Mars. In this experiment, researchers on the International Space Station tested various components of this diagnostic technology in  microgravity. We hope CRISPR-based tools can be used for precision diagnostics of bacterial and viral infections on space missions and,  eventually, crop diseases in space farming.

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