Hand-Held DNA Biosensor to Detect Toxins

There are many cases where detection of the presence of a DNA or RNA sequence in a sample can rapidly and unambiguously identify bacterial and viral bioagents of concern or be used in the diagnosis of both inherited and infectious diseases. Traditional DNA/RNA analysis methods are not applicable for field-use or a routine environment because they require complex procedures, large instruments, and lengthy procedures. To overcome the limitations of current technology AndCare, Inc. proposes to develop an approach whose central feature is the use of a hand-held, battery operated, monitor that uses mass produced, pre-calibrated, disposable sensor electrodes able to detect specific DNA or RNA sequences. In Phase I we will downsize and otherwise modify AndCare's existing instrument from a desk-top to a hand-held, self-contained, battery operated model. The low-cost, disposable sensor will be formed by the controlled deposition of nanometer sized colloidal gold particles containing immobilized biomolecules onto the surface of screen-printed carbon electrodes. These sensors will directly address the problem areas identified and will integrate with the hand-held electronic monitor to yield inexpensive devices that are user-friendly and sufficiently accurate to yield reliable results. The monitors and sensors will be easily manufactured with low defect rates.