The first rapid, portable point-of-care (POC) for the diagnosis of four sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been developed by Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity scientists and could be ready for routine clinical use over the next five years, according to an announcement.

The test aims to accelerate treatment and help stop the spread of common STIs.

Key features: 

• Utilizes next-generation CRISPR technology
• Can diagnose syphilis, herpes, chlamydia and gonorrhoea at the same time
• Produces results within an hour
• Identifies potential gonorrhoea antibiotic-resistance
• Self-collected specimens can be used

The test’s developers are working to “move the device into implementation trials, aiming for routine clinical use within the next five years.”