Detection of DNA using bioactive paper strips

摘要

Paper strips containing DNA-conjugated microgels (MG) are used to achieve sensitive DNA detection in three steps: target DNA promoted ligation of a DNA primer to the MG-bound DNA, rolling circle amplification (RCA) between the primer and a circle DNA, and hybridization of the RCA products and a fluorescent DNA probe. It remains a significant challenge to develop simple, rapid, and inexpensive bioassays that can be applied for the detection of biological agents in health, food and water. Currently, the majority of such analyses are performed in modern laboratories equipped with expensive instruments and staffed with highly qualified personnel. Although a few applications (such as home pregnancy tests and glucose sensors) utilize simple test strips, generally speaking, most bioassays are not suited for use by the average user. Thus, the development of easy-to-use biosensors is of tremendous interest in both the research community and many industrial sectors. Such devices are deemed even more useful in the developing world where access to sophisticated testing facilities is extremely limited.