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Distance-based quantification of miRNA-21 by the coffee-ring effect using paper devices
Dagan Zhang1, Chao Wu2, Chengxin Luan3
1Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
Mikrochimica Acta
|August 25, 2020
Summary
This study introduces a novel paper-based method for quantifying microRNA (miRNA) using the coffee-ring effect. This sensitive technique enables simple, visual detection of low-abundance biomarkers for diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Biomarker detection
- Analytical chemistry
- Molecular diagnostics
Background:
- MicroRNA (miRNA) quantification is crucial for disease diagnosis.
- Existing methods often require complex equipment and multiple steps.
- Developing sensitive, low-cost, and user-friendly detection platforms is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel paper-based analytical device for miRNA quantification.
- To utilize the coffee-ring effect for signal transduction in miRNA detection.
- To establish a sensitive and repeatable method for biomarker analysis.
Main Methods:
- Employed catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA) and hybridization chain reaction (HCR) for signal amplification.
- Utilized G-quadruplex/hemin DNAzyme for colorimetric detection.
- Leveraged the coffee-ring effect and evaporation-driven flow for signal localization on paper.
Main Results:
- Achieved sensitive and repeatable miRNA quantification with a relative standard deviation of 5.2%.
- Demonstrated a wide working range from 1.0 to 1000 pM.
- Obtained a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.2 pM for miRNA.
Conclusions:
- The paper-based device offers a novel signal transduction pathway for detecting low-abundance miRNAs.
- This platform provides a simple, visual, and cost-effective approach for biomarker quantification.
- The method holds promise for point-of-care diagnostics and early disease detection.
