National Development of Lyophilized Enzymes for Customizable Isothermal (LAMP) Kits for Point-of-Care Molecular Diagnostics Embedded in Microfluidic Chips

• Grant number: 25/18025-7
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: February 01, 2026
• End date: January 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Molecular Biology
• Principal Investigator: Luana Parras Meleiro Garcia
• Grantee: Luana Parras Meleiro Garcia
• Associated researchers: Cassia Cristina Augusto Pereira ; Samuel Matos da Costa
• Associated scholarship(s): 26/04128-1 - National development of lyophilized enzymes for customizable isothermal (LAMP) kits for point-of-care molecular diagnostics embedded in microfluidic chips, BP.PIPE

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, highlighted the urgent need for rapid and accurate diagnostic methods. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional PCR, offering DNA amplification at a constant temperature (60-65 °C) without the need for thermal cyclers, enabling its application in settings with limited infrastructure. LAMP also stands out for its speed, delivering detectable results in under 10 minutes, and for allowing direct visualization of amplified products-through turbidity, color change, or fluorescence-eliminating the need for sophisticated equipment.Beyond human health, the agricultural sector also benefits from rapid diagnostics. Early detection of phytopathogens and identification of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are crucial to minimize crop losses and ensure regulatory compliance. LAMP enables pathogen detection before symptom onset and GMO identification at early stages, optimizing the use of agrochemicals and facilitating audits.The effectiveness of LAMP is closely linked to the combination of efficient enzymes and optimized formulations. Protein engineering is a powerful tool to enhance known enzymes and introduce desirable characteristics for point-of-care devices. As a strategic step toward achieving national self-sufficiency in essential inputs for the microfluidic chips used in Doroth's rapid diagnostic devices, this project aims to develop a national reagent kit optimized for the LAMP technique. The initiative seeks not only to meet but to exceed international standards of efficacy and efficiency, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers while fostering sustainable and accessible innovation. This project reflects Doroth's commitment to scientific excellence and innovation, contributing to the development of biotechnological solutions that benefit society as a whole and strengthening Brazil's position as a leader in science and technology on the global stage. (AU)