Field-portable DNA hybridization assay with background-free optical detection
A field-portable, low-cost DNA detection device using upconverting nanophosphors and printed polymer sensors. Enables streamlined sample preparation without purification steps, ideal for crop genotyping and field diagnostics.
Overview
This solution offers a field-portable DNA hybridization assay that detects DNA fragments through a sandwich-type hybridization format with optical readout. The technology is designed to be extremely robust against autofluorescence from analyzed samples, allowing sample preparation to be streamlined and most purification steps to be omitted. The innovation combines upconverting nanophosphors (UCNPs) as optical tags with polymeric wide-bandgap semiconductor detectors, enabling a disposable, inexpensive sensor that can be read with a wireless or USB-connected reader costing less than $50.
Technical specifications
- Background-free optical detection: Uses UCNPs that function as two-photon contrast agents under low-power infrared excitation, eliminating fluorescence background interference
- Printed disposable sensor: The DNA hybridization array, UCNPs, and polymer detector can all be printed on a disposable substrate
- Wide-bandgap polymer detector: Cannot absorb the infrared excitation light, enabling clean signal detection
- Sandwich hybridization assay: Supports single-base polymorphism detection with verified reagents
- Microfluidic integration: Combines microfluidic channels with optical and electronic detection
- Low-cost reader: Wireless or USB-connected reader priced under $50
- Streamlined workflow: Minimal sample preparation without extensive purification
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 2, with the team having demonstrated key enabling technologies including UCNP synthesis and functionalization, photocurrent measurements using polymer semiconductors at pA sensitivity levels, microfluidic integration, and DNA sandwich assay reagents. The project aims to advance to TRL 3/4 within 12 months through staged validation: first characterizing sensor sensitivity with chemical tags, then testing with the DNA sandwich assay, followed by challenge testing with plant cell lysate backgrounds, and finally genotyping crop plant strains using a multiplexed array.
About North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University is a large, comprehensive public land‑grant research university in Raleigh. Its on‑campus research and technology park co‑locates corporate R&D groups, government partners, and faculty labs, enabling shared facilities, prototyping, and agile contracting. Located in North Carolina’s Research Triangle, partners tap a dense regional ecosystem while engaging through a statewide extension network and a mature co‑op program that deliver field deployment and workforce pipelines. Multiple pilot and demonstration facilities support scale‑up and validation toward pre‑commercial readiness. Research is supported by competitive funding from major federal agencies, including NSF, USDA, DOE, and DOD, and a dedicated technology transfer office with clear IP pathways helps accelerate commercialization.
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