A rapid and convenient method for on-site detection of MON863 maize through real-time fluorescence recombinase polymerase amplification

Abstract

As large-scale planting of genetically modified (GM) crops increases, the development of a rapid and convenient method for on-site detection of GM crops is important. We combined the advantages of recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and fluorescence detection to establish a rapid, sensitive, specific, and simple detection platform for on-site detection of MON863 maize. Test samples were added directly to the platform after simple pre-treatment with a DNA extraction-free method. Results were obtained through real-time monitoring with a portable instrument, which facilitated sample-in/answer-out on-site detection. The entire detection process, including sample preparation, RPA and identification of amplification results, was accomplished in approximately 10 min. Furthermore, the detection was achieved with a simple and inexpensive portable device. This method has high potential for application in other fields requiring rapid detection of DNA targets, such as in field research, resource-limited areas, and science education.

Keywords: Genetically modified crop; MON863; On-site detection; Real-time fluorescence; Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA).