World’s First Portable POC Test Simultaneously Detects Four Common STIs in One Hour

Delays in identifying the exact infection can lead to inappropriate treatment and ongoing transmission. Rapid diagnostic tools capable of detecting multiple infections at once could significantly improve patient care and public health outcomes. Researchers have now developed a portable test that can simultaneously detect several common STIs in less than one hour.

The test, developed by researchers at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity (Melbourne, Australia) and The University of Melbourne (Melbourne, Australia; ), uses a next-generation CRISPR-based diagnostic system that can detect both DNA and RNA from multiple pathogens in a single sample. The device identifies infections caused by syphilis, herpes simplex virus (HSV), chlamydia, and gonorrhea, and can also detect a key antibiotic-resistance marker associated with gonorrhea.

The portable system was validated using 900 clinical samples, making it the largest dataset reported for a CRISPR-based point-of-care STI diagnostic device. When compared with gold-standard laboratory PCR testing, the device achieved 97–100 percent accuracy in correctly identifying negative results, demonstrating strong agreement with conventional diagnostic methods. Because the test analyzes multiple pathogens simultaneously, it helps address diagnostic challenges where infections produce similar symptoms. For example, early-stage syphilis can cause genital sores that resemble those caused by herpes infections, increasing the risk of misdiagnosis if only a single pathogen is tested.

The handheld device provides results in under an hour and does not require laboratory infrastructure, allowing testing to be performed directly in clinics or community settings. Researchers suggest the technology could improve access to timely diagnosis and treatment, particularly in regional, remote, or underserved communities where laboratory testing may be limited. The system may also support self-collected samples, potentially increasing testing uptake among patients. Implementation trials are planned, with the goal of introducing the technology into routine clinical practice within the next five years.

“This novel enables accurate diagnosis and treatment immediately, without waiting days for laboratory testing or requiring multiple clinic visits,” said Dr. Shivani Pasricha, senior author of the paper published in The Lancet Microbe.  “This makes it particularly valuable for regional, remote and underserved communities, where diagnostic delays are common, and STI rates are often higher.” 

Related Links:
Doherty Institute
The University of Melbourne