An Affordable paper based platform for eDNA Filtration, Concentration, and nucleic acid extraction

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is crucial for non-invasive species discovery, especially for rare and endangered species.
• Conventional eDNA methods are often time-consuming and labor-intensive, limiting their practical application.
• There is a need for faster, more efficient, and portable eDNA extraction systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel, portable eDNA capture system for rapid on-site DNA extraction.
• To enhance DNA capture efficiency and reduce the time and cost associated with eDNA analysis.
• To assess the performance of the new system compared to established laboratory methods.

Main Methods:

• A novel eDNA capture system was designed using stacked membranes with a borosilicate glass paper binding pad incorporating chitosan and silica nanoparticles.
• The system is integrated into a portable device for on-site eDNA extraction from water samples (up to 3 mL).
• DNA recovery rates and time efficiency were compared to silica bead-based laboratory methods, including nucleic acid amplification (Ct values).

Main Results:

• The portable eDNA capture system demonstrated a DNA recovery rate of 86%, comparable to laboratory methods.
• DNA extraction was achieved in under 10 minutes, with Ct values reached within 18-36 minutes.
• Testing with real water samples yielded results consistent with silica bead-based laboratory methods, confirming system efficacy.

Conclusions:

• The novel eDNA capture system offers a rapid, cost-effective, and efficient solution for on-site eDNA extraction.
• The portable system significantly improves the accessibility of eDNA analysis for environmental monitoring and conservation.
• This technology has the potential to revolutionize species detection and biodiversity assessment in aquatic environments.