Ultra-sensitive field-based detection of plant genomic modifications
En Carta Diagnostics offers a point-of-care molecular diagnostic platform for ultra-sensitive plant genotyping. Building on validated synthetic biology sensors with attomolar sensitivity and RT-qPCR-level accuracy, the technology enables rapid 5–30 minute field detection of genomic modifications in crops, with microneedle-based sample collection and low-temperature operation.
Overview
En Carta Diagnostics is extending its validated point-of-care molecular diagnostic platform to plant genotyping, enabling ultra-sensitive detection of genomic modifications directly in the field or greenhouse. The company's synthetic biology-based, isothermal sensing technology has demonstrated attomolar sensitivity (approximately 1 copy per microliter) and accuracy comparable to RT-qPCR (greater than 98%) in patient trials for infectious disease detection. By adapting this proven platform to crops, En Carta aims to decentralize plant genotyping, removing the need for centralized laboratory infrastructure and enabling rapid, on-site decision-making for crop management and breeding programs.
The proposed solution targets agricultural partners seeking faster, more accessible molecular testing for plant traits, pathogens, and genetic modifications. The long-term vision is an all-in-one adhesive test combining microneedle sample collection with the molecular assay, deployable without external power or specialized training.
Technical specifications
Core sensing technology:
- Programmable aptaswitch sensors inspired by synthetic biology toehold switches, freeze-dried onto paper for room-temperature stability
- Attomolar detection sensitivity (approximately 1 copy per microliter) for pathogen genomes and SNPs
- Accuracy comparable to RT-qPCR, validated in clinical and field settings
- Next-generation platform delivers results in 5–30 minutes with one-pot multiplexing capability
- Eye-readable lateral flow strip readout for simple interpretation
Sample preparation innovations:
- No RNA/DNA purification required; works with heat-lysed and diluted samples
- Microneedle-based collection for no-power sample access to molecular biomarkers
- Low-temperature operation using recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), functional as low as 15°C, replacing the higher-temperature loop-mediated isothermal amplification
- Integration into fluidic cartridges to minimize user steps and skill requirements
Programmability:
- Sensors are programmable to detect specific genetic targets, enabling customization for partner-defined crop targets
- Companion design software supports sensor development and optimization
Technology readiness level
The underlying sensing technology has been validated through multiple high-impact publications and replicated by third-party users, demonstrating attomolar sensitivity and SNP specificity. Patient sample validation has shown high accuracy compared to RT-qPCR for detection and sequencing for SNPs, with field trials completed in Latin America for Zika and other pathogens.
The proposed crop application represents an adaptation of this validated platform. A 12-month proof-of-concept project is proposed with three objectives: integrating aptaswitches with low-temperature RPA, adapting microneedle technology for plant exudate collection, and developing and validating sensors for specific crop targets including limit-of-detection studies on plant material. A large DARPA grant supports continued development of low-burden sample preparation and assay deployment, providing additional leverage for agricultural applications.
About En Carta Diagnostics
En Carta Diagnostics is a Paris-based deep-tech biotechnology company that develops portable, point-of-need molecular diagnostic platforms. Utilizing advanced synthetic biology, the company creates programmable diagnostic kits that detect DNA or RNA pathogens with PCR-equivalent accuracy. Its technology employs sensors inspired by toehold switches, which are freeze-dried onto paper to ensure stability at room temperature and ease of use. This design eliminates the need for specialized laboratory equipment, complex training, or external power sources, allowing diagnostic tests to be performed by anyone, anywhere.
The company focuses on addressing critical gaps in infectious disease detection, with a primary emphasis on early-stage Lyme disease diagnosis. Its lead product, the EC Pocket Lyme test, received FDA Breakthrough Device Designation for its ability to detect Borrelia bacteria directly from skin interstitial fluid samples. Beyond Lyme disease, En Carta’s platform has been validated through field trials for various pathogens, including Zika, chikungunya, and SARS-CoV-2. By providing rapid, affordable, and accessible molecular diagnostics, the company aims to decentralize healthcare, enabling quicker clinical interventions and reducing the diagnostic delays often associated with standard immunological or visual testing methods.
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