From Sample to Answer: A Low-Cost Disposable Cartridge for Epidemic Detection on Site Based on 3D Printing Technology

摘要

In this paper, we introduced a novel portable device with low-cost disposable cartridge and applied the device to nucleic acid testing of infectious diseases on site. The cartridge was designed according to nucleic acid testing process including nucleic acid isolation based on magnetic beads with real-time fluorescence detection for PCR. It consisted of a half-enclosed body, a liquid handling arm, an array of reagent tanks, a sliding vane, a cover of sliding vane, 1.5 mL micro centrifuge tubes, and 0.2 mL PCR tubes. 3D printing technology was the preferably used method for design and fabrication of the objective detection cartridge. All components of the cartridge can be assembled easily and manually in a minute. We have verified several performances of the cartridge including liquid handling, effect of ethanol volatilization on PCR, and magnetic separation. Results obtained from these assays demonstrated that nucleic acid testing could be realized in the cartridge. We have performed a whole nucleic acid assay for detecting Bordetella pertussis genome and achieved the 93% efficiency of nucleic acid extraction. No false positive and negative results occur during using the cartridge. The entire process from sample introduction to answer-out can be completed in two hours in the closed environment that can reduce risk of cross-contamination effectively and ensure security of experimenter.