DotDx: Molecular platform for point-of-care detection of phytopathogens, transgenes, and resistance genes in plants

• Grant number: 24/23480-2
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: January 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Plant Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Gabriella Dias Arena
• Grantee: Gabriella Dias Arena
• Pesquisadores principais: Rodrigo Hernandez de Luzia Gurdos
• Associated researchers: Danielle Camargo Scotton ; Luana Parras Meleiro Garcia ; Marcos Augusto Stolf Brasil ; Mozart de Ávila Corrêa ; Rodrigo Henrique Gounella ; Samuel Matos da Costa
• Associated research grant: 24/10466-1 - DotDx: Molecular platform for point-of-care detection of phytopathogens, transgenes, and resistance genes in plants, AP.PIPE

Abstract

Current methods for detecting pathogens, transgenes, and other target sequences in plants include serological tests, which are limited to times of high target protein expression and are incapable of identifying point mutations, and PCR/qPCR, which require expensive infrastructure. To enable rapid detection of target genes directly in the field by non-specialists, a portable platform using Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), an isothermal DNA amplification technique that can be implemented in non-laboratory settings, was developed. The reactions are carried out on microfluidic chips, embodying a lab-on-a-chip technology for point-of-care (POC) detection. This project aims to improve the developed solution to overcome technical shortcomings, make it more intuitive and functional, and adapt it for the detection of new targets. The goal is to achieve an innovative technology capable of impacting the process of disease identification and certification of genetically modified plants. Due to its sequence-based detection, the solution also presents a broad spectrum of applications, being adaptable for detecting any targets in plants, including beneficial microorganisms and point mutations that confer pesticide resistance. (AU)