A nanomembrane-based nucleic acid sensing platform for portable diagnostics

Top Curr Chem. 2011:304:153-69. doi: 10.1007/128_2011_142.

Abstract

In this perspective article, we introduce a potentially transformative DNA/RNA detection technology that promises to replace DNA microarray and real-time PCR for field applications. It represents a new microfluidic technology that fully exploits the small spatial dimensions of a biochip and some new phenomena unique to the micro- and nanoscales. More specifically, it satisfies all the requisites for portable on-field applications: fast, small, sensitive, selective, robust, label- and reagent-free, economical to produce, and possibly PCR-free. We discuss the mechanisms behind the technology and introduce some preliminary designs, test results, and prototypes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • DNA / chemistry*
  • Diagnostic Services*
  • Humans
  • Microfluidics / instrumentation*
  • Microfluidics / methods*
  • Nanostructures*
  • Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis*
  • Precision Medicine / instrumentation

Substances

  • DNA