The article introduces a novel DNA amplification technique called recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), which combines isothermal recombinase-driven primer targeting with strand-displacement DNA synthesis. RPA achieves exponential amplification without the need for sample DNA pretreatment, operates at a constant low temperature, and is sensitive, specific, and rapid. The authors developed a probe-based detection system that allows for the detection of products in a simple sandwich assay, making it an instrument-free DNA testing system. The technology is demonstrated through a test for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), showing sensitivity to fewer than ten copies of genomic DNA. The combination of RPA and probe/nuclease-based read-out enables the detection of different MRSA alleles and an internal control in the same reaction, making it suitable for non-laboratory devices and point-of-care applications. The article also describes a lateral-flow dipstick technology for a simple, disposable diagnostic device.The article introduces a novel DNA amplification technique called recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), which combines isothermal recombinase-driven primer targeting with strand-displacement DNA synthesis. RPA achieves exponential amplification without the need for sample DNA pretreatment, operates at a constant low temperature, and is sensitive, specific, and rapid. The authors developed a probe-based detection system that allows for the detection of products in a simple sandwich assay, making it an instrument-free DNA testing system. The technology is demonstrated through a test for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), showing sensitivity to fewer than ten copies of genomic DNA. The combination of RPA and probe/nuclease-based read-out enables the detection of different MRSA alleles and an internal control in the same reaction, making it suitable for non-laboratory devices and point-of-care applications. The article also describes a lateral-flow dipstick technology for a simple, disposable diagnostic device.