Researchers led by Liu, Y., Xu JS., and Cao L. developed a CRISPR-based assay to detect BK and JC polyomaviruses in kidney-transplant recipients. The team validated the assay’s specificity and sensitivity for post-transplant monitoring, addressing infections that drive graft dysfunction and require rapid clinical intervention. The assay leverages CRISPR’s programmable nuclease activity to recognise viral nucleic acids, offering potential advantages in speed and cost versus conventional PCR. In immunocompromised patients, earlier detection of BK/JC viremia can prompt antiviral management or immunosuppression adjustments to prevent graft loss. Translational steps include clinical validation in larger transplant cohorts, workflow integration into transplant virology labs, and regulatory clearance. If adopted, the test could become a routine tool in post-kidney-transplant surveillance.