Scientists Develop Technology to Conduct Molecular Studies Using Light
Scientists have developed a groundbreaking technology that allows for the simultaneous conduction of thousands of molecular studies using light to identify target molecules attached to the surface of a tiny silicon block. The tool has the potential to detect up to 160,000 different molecules per square centimeter, making it a highly versatile and efficient solution.
The original intent of this technology was to detect genetic fragments of the SARS-COV-2 virus and other infectious agents. However, it has been found that the technology can also identify protein markers of cancer and small molecules that indicate toxic threats in the environment.
Chris Sholin, Molecular Biologist and General Director of the Monterey Gulf of the Research Institute of Aquarium, emphasizes the potential use of this tool in clinical diagnostics, despite the presence of competing technologies in the field.
Traditionally, genetic tests rely on measuring the absorption or radiation of light from trial molecules. However, Jennifer Dionn, an applied physicist from Stanford University, along with her colleagues, proposed an optical detection method based on metaps. In their study, they demonstrated that their installation can determine the presence of 4000 copies of targeted genes on a microlyte (source).
This cutting-edge technology enables doctors to quickly identify viral infections without the need to pre-amplify the patient’s genetic material. Moreover, the method not only detects the presence of the virus but also measures the intensity of the infection, empowering doctors to personalize treatment plans accordingly.
Dionn and her colleagues have established PumpKinseed Bio, a commercial endeavor aimed at bringing their new detectors to market. Jack Hu, a former graduate student of the Dionn laboratory and the current head of the startup, envisions the technology being used to analyze multiple disease biomarkers simultaneously.