LoCKAmp: lab-on-PCB technology for <3 minute virus genetic detection

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Microfluidics
• Diagnostics

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic revealed critical needs for accessible, field-deployable diagnostic technologies.
• Existing lab-on-chip solutions faced manufacturing and integration challenges, hindering widespread deployment.
• Printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing infrastructure offers a scalable and cost-effective alternative for microsystem fabrication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel lab-on-PCB diagnostic platform for rapid genetic detection of SARS-CoV-2.
• To demonstrate the feasibility of repurposing PCB technology for integrated microfluidic diagnostic devices.
• To achieve ultrafast and sensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 in various sample types.

Main Methods:

• Development of a miniaturized, continuous-flow lab-on-PCB chip for loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP).
• Integration of off-the-shelf optical detection components for cost-effective fluorescence readout.
• Testing the device with wastewater samples and human nasopharyngeal swabs for SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated ultrafast SARS-CoV-2 RNA amplification in wastewater within 2 minutes at low concentrations (17 gc μL⁻¹).
• Successfully detected SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal swabs without prior RNA extraction or purification.
• Achieved a high technology-readiness level, with mass-manufactured chips costing £2.50 each.

Conclusions:

• The lab-on-PCB platform offers a rapid, cost-effective, and field-deployable solution for SARS-CoV-2 genetic detection.
• Repurposing PCB manufacturing enables scalable production of advanced microfluidic diagnostic devices.
• This technology holds significant potential for broader applications in pathogen detection and genetic analysis.