DNA nanospheres “hand in hand” with electronic technology to detect pathogens and can easily and quickly identify various nucleic acids

Scientists at Sweden's Karolinska Institute have developed a new method for detecting pathogens using DNA nanospheres, aiming to simplify nucleic acid and pathogen detection technology. This latest research is expected to lead to a low-cost detection method that can easily and quickly identify various nucleic acids in different situations. The relevant paper was published in the latest issue of the magazine "Science Advances".

Research diagram image source: "Science Advances" magazine

The new method combines molecular biology (DNA nanosphere generation) and electronics (electrical impedance-based quantification) to produce a groundbreaking detection tool. To this end, the team modified a DNA amplification reaction called loop-mediated isothermal amplification technology (LAMP), which produces 1-2 micron DNA nanospheres if pathogens are present in the sample. The nanospheres were then guided through tiny channels and identified as they passed through two electrodes. The system is compact and efficient, capable of detecting up to 10 target molecules within 1 hour, making it very sensitive and fast.

Protein-based diagnostics have been widely adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, but these methods require the time-consuming development of high-quality antibodies. In contrast, nucleic acid-based methods are easier to develop, more sensitive, and more flexible.

This detection method is expected to speed up the introduction of new diagnostic kits. These kits combine mass-produced electronics with lyophilized reagents, potentially resulting in a cheap, widely deployable and scalable assay.

Researchers say rapid and accurate detection of genetic material is key to diagnosis, especially when new pathogens emerge. Currently, they are actively exploring the integration of this technology into areas such as environmental monitoring, food safety, virus and antimicrobial resistance detection, and have applied for a patent for it.