Gene is the first system that can perform DNA extraction, amplification and sequencing outside a controlled environment, as a laboratory.
The components of Gene are a thermocycler, that allows DNA extraction, purification and amplification and a portable DNA sequencer MinION, developed by Oxford Nanopore Technologies, that allows sequencing the DNA. All these equipments work with a battery-powered device.
This portable lab brings molecular analysis directly in the field, revolutionizing biological exploration.
The innovative technology of Gene opens up a wide range of possible applications in all contexts where the portability of the system and the speed of the results can make a difference.
It is the hope of the inventors that the low cost ofthe system and the autonomy from traditional labs, will enable its use in more regions and fields of biology. Particularly in developing countries in the tropics where in many cases the lack of infrastructure dedicated to genetic analysis is a limiting factor for scientific research. Elsewhere, the potential fields of application of Gene extend from personalized medicine to customs controls, analysis of food security, crop science and environmental applications.
COMPONENTS
DNA extraction: In order to perform a DNA extraction protocol avoiding the use of centrifuges we have developed a protocol using a chaotropic agent that only requires a short heating step that could be perform in a standard thermocycler. It is possible to extract DNA from different kind biological samples such as blood, muscles or bucal swabs.
DNA amplification: One of the most delicate reagents in a DNA amplification protocol is the DNA polymerase. For this reason, we have lyophilized all the components of the PCR mastermix to preserve them. You only need to add water and DNA and in a few hours you get your PCR product.
DNA quantification and purification After the PCR to know the success of it our thermocycler has a fluorometer incorporated. By using a standard DNA binding fluorophore you can know which your DNA product amount is. For cleaning the DNA amplified we use a beads purification protocol. We have built a DIY-magnetic rack to perform the purification.
DNA sequencing By using MinIon, a nanopore sequencer of Oxford Nanopore Technologies, is possible to get the DNA sequence. You only need a PC, some reagents and few hours and you can read.
POWER SUPPLY We use battery packs that run with solar panels for the electrical supply. Our thermocycler runs at 12 volts and the PC at 220 volts.
