https://video.igem.org/videos/watch/9accf75a-89bc-4f87-a796-951342d853c0 Title: ToeholdX: From AMR Detection to a Universal RNA Sensing Platform Description: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is rapidly emerging as one of the greatest threats to global health. Resistance genes such as MCR-1, NDM-1, and KPC-2, which undermine last-resort antibiotics including colistin and carbapenems, are increasingly spreading through environmental pathways such as agricultural water systems. However, current detection methods rely on expensive instruments and specialized laboratories, making large-scale field surveillance difficult. To tackle this challenge, we developed a portable, low-cost diagnostic platform based on synthetic biology. Our system employs computationally designed RNA Toehold Switches to specifically recognize multiple antimicrobial resistance genes and generate distinct colorimetric outputs in a cell-free expression system. Coupled with RPA isothermal amplification and paper-based detection, the platform enables rapid, user-friendly, and equipment-free testing. By bringing AMR monitoring out of the laboratory and into the field, our project aims to support early warning, environmental surveillance, and more accessible public health protection. Wiki | Official Page Sat, 29 Aug 2026 17:17:30 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html PeerTube - https://video.igem.org https://video.igem.org/client/assets/images/icons/icon-1500x1500.png https://video.igem.org/videos/watch/9accf75a-89bc-4f87-a796-951342d853c0 All rights reserved, unless otherwise specified in the terms specified at https://video.igem.org/about and potential licenses granted by each content's rightholder.