CRISPR-based DNA and RNA detection with liquid phase separation

The RNA-guided CRISPR endonucleases Cas12a and Cas13a allow detection of specific DNA or RNA sequences in molecular diagnostics applications. Here, we present a novel approach that facilitates sequence detection even with the unaided eye, through solution turbidity arising from liquid-liquid phase separation of nucleic acids and positively charged polyelectrolytes. The simplicity of combining CRISPR-nuclease activity with macroscopic phase separation allows for easy and low-cost detection of specific nucleic acids in a wide range of applications.