Novel methods for on-site and cost-effective quantification of multiple targets using functional DNA and portable instruments

Shen, Zhe

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/44768 Copy

Description

Title

Novel methods for on-site and cost-effective quantification of multiple targets using functional DNA and portable instruments

Author(s)

Shen, Zhe

Issue Date

2013-05-28T19:19:08Z

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Lu, Yi

Department of Study

Biochemistry

Discipline

Biochemistry

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

• cost-effective
• on-site
• assay
• cocaine
• lateral flow devices
• streptavidin
• portable glucose meters
• portable pH meters

Abstract

This thesis aims at developing novel methods of cost-effective on-site quantitative assays of multiple targets using functional DNA and portable instruments. Such assay methods are important for personal care as well as analyte detection processes. Recent advancements such as the personal glucose meter method developed can achieve fast but not low-cost or user-friendly tests. Two simple and novel methods have been developed. The lateral flow device method is based on Millipore High-flow Test KitTM, where sample is applied to a dipstick pre-treated with aptamer-conjugated magnetic beads, leading to the release of invertase-DNA strands. The strands then flows up with the liquid to an absorption pad pre-treated with sucrose, where the invertase linked on the strands converts sucrose into glucose in amounts proportional to the concentration of the target molecule. The glucose is then detected by a personal glucose meter. The pH meter method is based on aptamer-conjugated magnetic beads and a portable pH meter, where target molecule triggers the release of glucose-oxidase-conjugated DNA strand and the oxidation of glucose in the buffer solution, therefore lowering the pH of the solution proportionally to the concentration of the target molecule. Both methods are cost-effective and convenient for on-site assays.

Graduation Semester

2013-05

Permalink

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/44768

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2013 Zhe Shen

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