Electrochemical battery-free dna-based platform for point-of-care detection of DNA and RNA

Overview

This solution offers a low-cost, cleanroom-free electrochemical platform for the point-of-care detection of DNA and RNA targets. The technology combines inkjet-printed nanoporous gold electrodes with a battery-free NFC potentiostat, enabling quantitative detection of oligonucleotides in the low picomolar range. With a production cost under $2 and fabrication times measured in minutes, the platform is designed for decentralized diagnostics and field deployment. Any NFC-enabled smartphone can serve as the readout device, eliminating the need for dedicated laboratory instrumentation. The system supports multiplexed detection through the use of different redox tags and can be enhanced with CRISPR-Cas technology for improved sensitivity. Integrated microfluidic sample pretreatment can be added to streamline workflows outside the lab.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Inkjet-printed nanoporous gold electrodes produced via a proprietary chemical sintering method that controls nanostructuration without cleanroom requirements
• Battery-free NFC potentiostat directly integrated on the device, enabling wireless electrochemical measurements at distances of a few centimeters
• Quantitative detection capability in the low picomolar range for oligonucleotide targets
• Multiplexed detection enabled by different redox tags
• Smartphone-based readout compatible with any NFC-enabled device
• Optional CRISPR-Cas integration for enhanced assay sensitivity
• Microfluidic sample pretreatment integration using bioadhesive-based laser-patterned circuits
• Production cost below $2 per device with fabrication times on the order of minutes
• SARS-CoV-2 RNA multiplex detection validated with low picomolar limit of detection

Technology readiness level

The core electrode fabrication technology and NFC-integrated wireless measurement approach have been experimentally validated by the NBB group at ICN2. Multiplex detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA genes has been successfully demonstrated with detection limits in the low picomolar range. The chemical sintering method for controlling nanostructuration of inkjet-printed gold nanoparticle devices is under patenting. Future development follows a four-phase plan encompassing problem identification, detection method and bioreceptor design, electrode fabrication and laboratory calibration, and full proof-of-concept validation with NFC and microfluidic integration in both laboratory and field settings.