Advancements in CRISPR-Cas–Based Biosensors for Detecting Water Pollutants and Contaminants

These CRISPR-Cas biosensors offer high specificity due to guide RNA programming and exceptional sensitivity often boosted by isothermal amplification, with multiple readout options. This review highlights recent progress in using CRISPR-Cas biosensors to detect vital water pollutants, such as pathogenic microbes, toxins, heavy metals, and organic micropollutants. It examines how these biosensors have transitioned from lab prototypes to field-ready devices, evaluates their effectiveness across various water samples, and discusses the challenges and future opportunities for this innovative technology. The aim is to provide readers with a current overview of the latest advances in CRISPR-Cas biosensor systems, deepen their understanding, and inspire further development of portable CRISPR-Cas technologies.