Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Microbial RNA directly from Blood Samples by Electrical Biosensors

Abstract

Researchers at the University of California, Davis have developed a biosensor technology for rapid, sensitive detection, purification, and identification of nucleic acids in complex biological fluids.

Full Description

This technology introduces a novel biosensor platform utilizing a two-stage molecular-based approach for the detection, purification, and identification of DNA and RNA biomarkers in complex biological samples. The first stage employs electrochemical detection of DNA:RNA hybridization within a tunable nanoporous electrode for screening specific nucleic acid-based biomarkers and facilitating the removal of complex media constituents. The second stage leverages single-molecule conductance measurements for identifying purified specific hybrids, offering strain-level information critical for diagnosing conditions like sepsis and detecting antimicrobial resistance.

Applications

• Diagnostic assays for rapid identification of pathogens in clinical settings, particularly for urgent conditions like sepsis. 
• Point-of-care diagnostic tools for field applications in epidemic and pandemic response. 
• Food safety and environmental monitoring for detection of microbial contaminants. 
• Research tools for studying microbial resistance and pathogen evolution.

Features/Benefits

• Enables rapid and sensitive detection of pathogens directly from small volumes of biological samples without prior nucleic acid amplification. 
• Utilizes nanoporous metal electrodes for selective transport and purification of nucleic acids, significantly reducing false positives and negatives. 
• Provides strain-level identification of pathogens, crucial for effective treatment decisions. 
• Capable of identifying anti-microbial resistant strains, aiding in the fight against antibiotic resistance. 
• Supports multiplexing for simultaneous detection of multiple targets, enhancing diagnostic capabilities. 
• Integrates seamlessly with microfluidics and electronic systems for a complete sample-in-answer-out platform. 
• Overcomes the limitations of traditional pathogen detection methods, such as long turnaround times and the need for large sample volumes. 
• Eliminates the necessity for prior nucleic acid purification, streamlining the diagnostic process. 
• Addresses the challenge of detecting pathogens in complex biological samples with high sensitivity and specificity. 
• Reduces the risk of sepsis-related mortalities by enabling quicker, more accurate pathogen identification.

Patent Status

Additional Patent Pending