Point-of-use DNA/RNA detection platform using lab-on-disc and crispr/cas for GMO targets

Overview

This project develops a portable, self-contained molecular diagnostics platform that integrates Lab-on-a-Disc centrifugal microfluidics with RPA (Recombinase Polymerase Amplification) and CRISPR/Cas detection chemistry. Designed for point-of-use deployment, the system enables rapid identification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and other DNA or RNA targets directly from plant material without requiring laboratory infrastructure.

The platform addresses a critical gap in agricultural testing, biosecurity screening, and supply chain verification by delivering sample-to-answer results in approximately 60 minutes. Its compact form factor fits within a pelican case or smaller, making it suitable for field deployment by agronomists, regulators, and industry quality assurance teams. Results are reported wirelessly to a smartphone or laboratory information management system (LIMS).

Technical specifications

Core platform features:

• Centrifugal microfluidic disc architecture with automated aliquoting into up to 24 singleplex reaction wells
• Off-the-shelf one-pot lysis buffer for simplified sample preparation, removing the need for solid-phase extraction
• RPA-CRISPR/Cas assay chemistry offering higher specificity than RPA alone
• Co-rotating PCB board (eLoaD) providing wireless local heating to required reaction temperatures and integrated detection
• Lateral flow strip-based readout for each detection well
• Sealed, self-contained disc design preventing environmental contamination
• Sample loading via pipette, syringe, or leaf punch

System integration:

• Combines DCU's established centrifugal valve technology with co-rotating heating and detection electronics
• Fully automated workflow from raw plant material to interpreted result
• Compatible with smart-phone reporting and LIMS connectivity

Technology readiness level

Individual component technologies have been validated separately: DCU's Lab-on-a-Disc platform has demonstrated fully automated pathogen detection using LAMP amplification with six singleplex wells; portable laboratory instrument formats have been established; co-rotating electronics for wireless heating and detection have been developed; and RPA-CRISPR/Cas assays with lateral flow readout have been demonstrated.

The integration of these technologies into a single platform represents the primary technical risk, particularly compatibility of the lysis buffer chemistry with CRISPR/RPA detection. The project targets a TRL 6 instrument prototype with low-volume chip batch production by month 12. Testing will be conducted in laboratory settings using idealised assays, with a design compatible with subsequent in-field validation as a follow-on activity. Reagent storage requirements are outside the current project scope.