Non-thermal Cycling for Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Background

PCR is the most widely used method for in vitro DNA amplification. However, it requires thermocycling to facilitate DNA melting and enzymatic replication (switching between double and single stranded DNA). Heating/cooling limits device design and thermocycling is a power-hungry process so that isothermal approaches have been sought as improvements to conventional PCR.

Technology Description

University researchers have developed a PCR method and device that does not rely on thermal cycling. The invention can be implemented on a fluidic chip platform and is compatible with standard sample preparation and detection schemes; it offers a totally integrated approach that enables overall reaction efficiency, reduced power consumption and device portability.

Intellectual Property Info

The invention is available for licensing and research sponsorship.

Patent Status