10104411Development of an Instrument-Free Molecular Diagnostic Test for Chlamydia and GonorrhoeaClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKChlamydia (CT) and Gonorrhoea (NG) are the two most prevalent sexually transmitted infections, with 129m and 82m cases worldwide in 2020, respectively. Most CT/NG infections are asymptomatic yet if left untreated can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, leading to infertility and ectopic pregnancy. The infection rate in developed countries has increased persistently over the last 15 years, despite the implementation of national screening programmes. The emergence of multi-drug resistant NG is of increasing concern on a global basis. CT/NG is currently diagnosed using nucleic acid amplification tests using complex instruments which require a central testing location. This approach reduces flexibility, adds cost and leads to poor uptake and delayed treatment. Improved diagnostic tests for CT/NG are important to identify more individuals requiring treatment and ensure timely and appropriate use of antibiotic treatments. In this project we are developing an instrument-free molecular test for CT/NG, which brings the accuracy of a laboratory-based nucleic acid amplification test into a simple, flexible, disposable format analogous to an antigen test. This new class of test would greatly facilitate decentralised testing for CT/NG by untrained users in any setting and thus help to combat the CT/NG epidemic and mitigate the threat of antimicrobial resistant bacteria.