A portable low-cost polymerase chain reaction device.

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) systems are often bulky and expensive, limiting their application in resource-limited environments.
• There is a need for accessible, portable, and cost-effective PCR instrumentation to expand molecular biology and diagnostic capabilities globally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and build a portable, low-cost PCR instrument.
• To achieve fast and accurate thermal cycling suitable for resource-constrained settings.
• To provide an open-source platform for wider accessibility and implementation.

Main Methods:

• Development of a compact PCR instrument using an Arduino UNO platform.
• Integration of a four-well aluminum heating block with thermoelectric cooling and a heated lid.
• Implementation of a piecewise variable coefficient PID algorithm for precise temperature control.

Main Results:

• The portable PCR device achieved heating and cooling rates of 1.78 °C/s and 1.52 °C/s, respectively.
• Temperature accuracy was maintained within ±0.55 °C.
• Successful amplification of kelp genes demonstrated performance comparable to commercial instruments.

Conclusions:

• The developed portable PCR instrument is a cost-effective and accessible solution for molecular diagnostics in resource-limited settings.
• The open-source design facilitates widespread adoption and further development.
• This technology can significantly enhance diagnostic capabilities in underserved regions.