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Updated: Feb 22, 2026
Author Spotlight: Advancements in DNA Nanosensors – Addressing Sensitivity and Selectivity Challenges in Molecular Detection
Published on: February 9, 2024
Colorimetric biosensor based on a DNAzyme primer and its application in logic gate operations for DNA screening
Chenguang Wang1, Nan Cheng2, Longjiao Zhu2
1Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science & Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China; College of Plant Protection, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100094, China; Institute of Plant Quarantine, Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Beijing 100176, China.
This study presents a novel colorimetric biosensor for DNA screening using a DNAzyme that mimics horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The biosensor offers rapid, specific, and portable nucleic acid detection, ideal for field applications like genetically modified organism (GMO) screening.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mimicking DNAzymes offer potential for biosensing applications.
- Existing DNA detection methods can be limited by self-inhibition and amplification disparity.
- Need for rapid, portable, and specific nucleic acid detection tools for field applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and develop a colorimetric biosensor for DNA screening based on DNAzyme conformational changes.
- To overcome limitations of self-inhibition and amplification disparity in DNA detection.
- To create a rapid, portable, and versatile tool for nucleic acid detection and diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Designed a DNAzyme-based colorimetric biosensor utilizing the conformational changes of HRP-mimicking DNAzymes.
- Employed base pairing of the DNAzyme sequence to inhibit hemin/G-quadruplex structure formation.
- Utilized universal primer multiplex polymerase chain reaction (UP-M-PCR) for DNA amplification and naked-eye colorimetric detection.
- Integrated an OR logic gate operation for DNA detection based on optical characteristics.
Main Results:
- Achieved DNA detection through visible color disappearance, overcoming self-inhibition and amplification disparity via UP-M-PCR.
- Demonstrated high specificity and high-throughput detection without the need for gel analysis.
- Reported a sensitivity of 1% and detection limit of approximately 180 DNA copy numbers.
- Successfully screened genetically modified organism (GMO) elements, covering over 90% of globally authorized events.
Conclusions:
- The developed colorimetric biosensor is a rapid, portable, and versatile tool for nucleic acid detection and diagnosis.
- The biosensing system offers high specificity and high-throughput screening capabilities.
- The technology shows significant potential for field applications, including GMO detection and monitoring.
