The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has provided $175,000 (EUR 165,000) grant to Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute (GMGI) and Sherlock Biosciences aid their research. This funding, part of the USDA’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, focuses on addressing the issue of the shrimp’s white spot syndrome virus.
Advancing aquaculture health with new tech
The SBIR program allocated $12.5 million (EUR 11.8 million) to 76 businesses, supporting innovations across various technology sectors. GMGI and Sherlock Biosciences are collaborating to develop CRISPR-based diagnostic tool. It’s designed to work directly in the field, detecting a range of shrimp pathogens, starting with the white spot syndrome virus.
The power of CRISPR technology
At the heart of this project is CRISPR technology, a precise tool for identifying shrimp pathogens. Sherlock Biosciences’ process combines with GMGI’s efforts to create affordable, highly sensitive diagnostic tests that can provide results in under an hour.
Andrea Bodnar, GMGI’s Science Director, stated, “We’re excited to work with Sherlock Biosciences on this project, which has the potential to transform disease management in aquaculture. It aligns with GMGI’s mission to make progress toward commercialization.”
Shrimp pathogen testing, anywhere
The key advantage is accessibility. These tests don’t require expensive lab equipment and can be used in various settings.
Bryan Dechairo, President of Sherlock Biosciences, said, “We’re partnering with GMGI to explore affordable, rapid, and highly sensitive CRISPR-based diagnostic tests. This is not just about human health; it’s a new frontier for diagnostics.”
Helping shrimp farmers
This tool could be a game-changer for shrimp farmers, as it enables quick, cost-effective detection of the white spot virus in the field. This proactive approach can help protect shrimp farms and livelihoods.
GMGI Research Scientist Shelly Wanamaker explained, “Our work has significant potential. It will allow aquaculture farmers to screen for and respond to the virus faster.”
A brighter aquaculture future
The collaboration between GMGI and Sherlock Biosciences, backed by the USDA grant, could revolutionize aquaculture disease management. This innovative CRISPR-based diagnostic tool promises to be a valuable asset in the fight against aquatic pathogens, benefiting both shrimp farmers and the global food supply chain.
