Lab-free nanopore sequencing platform for detecting pathogens and genomic modifications
A field-validated nanopore sequencing pipeline deployed on a high-performance cluster for real-time detection of any pathogen or genetic modification. Eliminates the need for laboratory infrastructure and individual target-specific tests, with scalability from a single plant sample to thousands.
Overview
This solution offers a field-deployable, lab-free genomic detection platform built on nanopore sequencing and a high-performance computing pipeline. Originally developed and validated for real-time pathogen detection in out-of-lab environments, the approach can be adapted to identify any kind of exogenous DNA or genetic modification without requiring expensive laboratory infrastructure. Because the platform is universal rather than target-specific, it removes the need to develop individual tests for each gene or target of interest, saving significant time and cost. The system scales from analyzing a single sample to processing thousands of samples simultaneously.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Nanopore sequencing technology enabling portable, real-time DNA and RNA analysis outside conventional laboratory settings
- Bioinformatics pipeline implemented on a high-performance computing cluster for rapid data processing and interpretation
- Universal detection capability that identifies any pathogen or genetic modification rather than requiring target-specific assays
- Proven field deployment in out-of-lab contexts, demonstrating robustness under real-world conditions
- Scalable throughput ranging from single-sample analysis to thousands of samples
- Adaptable framework suitable for agricultural biosecurity, food safety, environmental monitoring, and clinical diagnostics applications
Technology readiness level
The core nanopore sequencing pipeline has been developed, implemented on a high-performance cluster, and successfully validated through field application for pathogen detection. The next phase of validation involves adapting the existing diagnostic toolkit to detect any kind of genetic modification, building on the already-proven universal detection architecture.
About Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main
Johann Wolfgang Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main is a comprehensive public research university in Germany’s Rhine‑Main metropolis, spanning multiple campuses and a strong international profile. Industry engages through co-located labs and shared facilities, plus tight integration with the university hospital that enables translation from discovery to clinical evaluation. Its Frankfurt location links partners to Europe’s leading financial center and a major chemical‑pharma, logistics, and aviation ecosystem, with quick access to corporate HQs and the airport. Research is backed by national and European programs, including DFG, BMBF, Hesse state initiatives, and EU framework funding. A dedicated technology transfer office and incubator manage IP, licensing, and collaboration pathways.
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