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Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy on a Semiconductor Based Next-Generation Sequencing Platform
Published on: August 17, 2022
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Rapid genetic screening with high quality factor metasurfaces.
Jack Hu1, Fareeha Safir2, Kai Chang3
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford University, 496 Lomita Mall, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA. hujack@stanford.edu.
Nature Communications
|July 26, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a novel label-free genetic screening platform using high-Q silicon nanoantennas for rapid molecular detection. The technology offers sensitive and specific identification of gene fragments without amplification, paving the way for advanced diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Molecular Biology
- Diagnostics
Background:
- Genetic analysis is crucial for personalized medicine and diagnostics.
- Current methods like PCR and NGS require amplification and can face inhibition issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a label-free genetic screening platform using high-Q silicon nanoantennas.
- To demonstrate sensitive and specific detection of gene fragments without amplification.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-Q silicon nanoantennas functionalized with nucleic acid fragments.
- Employed DNA hybridization for specific gene fragment detection.
- Tested the platform in buffer and spiked nasopharyngeal eluates.
Main Results:
- Achieved high-Q factor (average 2,200) in nanoantennas.
- Successfully detected SARS-CoV-2 E and ORF1b gene fragments with high specificity.
- Demonstrated femtomolar sensitivity in buffer and nanomolar sensitivity in eluates within 5 minutes.
- Patterned nanoantennas at high densities (160,000/cm²).
Conclusions:
- The developed platform provides a foundation for rapid, compact, and amplification-free molecular assays.
- High-Q nanoantennas enable sensitive and specific genetic screening.
- Potential for highly-multiplexed detection in complex biological samples.
