Paper-Based Chip Platform: PCR-SERS-LFA Integration for On-Site Coastal Harmful Microorganism Detection

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Biotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Harmful algal blooms (HABs) and pathogenic microorganisms pose significant threats to coastal ecosystems and public health.
• Rapid, field-deployable detection methods are crucial for timely intervention and risk mitigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an integrated, paper-based platform for simultaneous on-site detection of HABs and pathogenic microorganisms.
• To combine Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS), and Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) for nucleic acid detection.
• To achieve rapid, portable, and contamination-free detection within 30 minutes.

Main Methods:

• Integration of a miniature thermal cycler, lyophilized paper-based reaction chambers, and a capillary-driven detection pen.
• Utilizing SERS and Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) for dual-mode nucleic acid detection.
• Field validation using environmental samples from a coastal bathing beach.

Main Results:

• Achieved limits of detection of 10^1-10^2 copies/μL (SERS) and 10^3-10^4 copies/μL (visualization) for target organisms.
• Complete amplification and detection within 30 minutes.
• Demonstrated comparable performance to laboratory-based quantitative PCR (qPCR) in field validation.
• Successfully identified Ulva prolifera micropropagules and enabled large-scale mapping of overwintering zones.

Conclusions:

• The developed integrated paper-based platform offers a portable and rapid solution for on-site detection of HABs and pathogens.
• The platform shows comparable performance to gold-standard methods, supporting environmental monitoring and public health surveillance.
• This technology facilitates timely identification of ecological threats and supports effective management strategies.