To address the problem of chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) classification, we developed a miRNA detection platform based on CRISPR/Cas12a system combined with a hybridization chain reaction (HCR) circuit. HCR technology is an enzyme-free nucleic acid polymerization reaction with high compatibility and throughput. CRISPR/Cas system was introduced downstream of the biological route to assist the specific detection of HCR amplification products, and then fluorescence signals were generated to realize signal transduction.
Chronic
Musculoskeletal
Pain
Chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) is often associated with reduced activity, sleep disturbance, fatigue, and mood alterations, and can result in severe disability. However, due to the aging population and lifestyle changes, the prevalence of CMP is on the rise, and CMP has become one of the most common reasons for patients to seek medical treatment. The accurate distinction between neuropathic and nociceptive CMP can help improve the efficiency of diagnosis and treatment and save medical resources.
Bio
Hardware
Our project constructed a POCT device based on paper-based chip. HCR and CRISPR can react on paper-based chips. Heating, fluorescence detection and software modules are provided to improve the portability and real-time performance of the device. Our device is characterized by high throughput, miniaturization, user-friendly, and instant analysis. The entire detection process takes about an hour, which is convenient and quick.
Model
The modeling work is mainly divided into three modules: 1. Combine literature and data to screen detectable miRNAs in blood, find the two types of miRNAs with the highest degree of association with pain, establish a decision tree classification model for the two types of miRNAs, and input the miRNA concentration to obtain the patient's pain type; 2. Using NUPACK and scoring mechanism to optimize our HCR primers; 3. Develop differential equations based on algebraic equations to describe our CRISPR process and evaluate and verify our equation model
HP
“Human Practices is the study of how our work affects the world, and how the world affects our work.” Around the project of synthetic biology and chronic musculoskeletal pain, we conducted several interviews with people from different fields, and obtained decisive suggestions for the project’s advancement and improved the project. Educational outreach and feedback in diverse and innovative ways also increased awareness of chronic musculoskeletal pain and the impact of synthetic biology.
Team Email: synbio_bit@yeah.net
School address：5 Zhongguancun South St, Haidian District, Beijing
