Dr Will Anderson1, Dr Fiach Antaw1, Sophie Kenny1, Harshita Rupani1, Ramlah Khamis1, Dr Nicolas Constantin1, Dr Anna Gemmell2, Dr Craig Bell2, Dr Darren Korbie1, Professor Matt Trau1
1Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia, 2Centre for Advanced Imaging, Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
Biography:
Dr. Will Anderson holds a PhD from the University of Queensland and is currently an adjunct fellow at the Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology. His academic career has primarily explored investigating the physical chemistry of biological colloidal systems and the development of nanoparticle characterization technologies. Post Academica, will has focused on translational research where he has over 7 years industry experience within biotech start-ups. In these roles he has worked on the development of new technologies for DNA, RNA and protein extraction, as well as designing point-of-care molecular diagnostic devices.
Abstract:
Fluorimetry techniques to quantify low concentration eDNA samples and their associated sequencing libraries have achieved widespread uptake due to their speed, accuracy and sensitivity. Unfortunately, the high cost of NA (Nucleic Acid) fluorometers is one of the many roadblocks preventing eDNA analysis in resource-limited settings. The critical need for readily accessible NA quantification technologies was also reinforced by the impact to scientific equipment supply-chains experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. To address these accessibility challenges, we have developed an open source, <$40 USD, NA fluorometer, which we have termed the “DIYNAFLUOR” (DIY Nucleic Acid FLUORometer). This device was designed to use readily-available off-the-shelf components, simple 3D-printed parts and “plug-and-play” solder-free assembly. It is compatible with existing DNA-centric Qubit reagents, demonstrating Limits of Quantitation with the Qubit High Sensitivity kit of 9.4 pg/µL and an Average Absolute Bias of 3.6 pg/µL across a 0 – 500 pg/µL measurement regime. Verification of the device was performed by comparative measurements against a Qubit device in a busy biotechnology laboratory, and build instructions were validated through assembly and qualification of three DIYNAFLUOR devices by researchers outside the primary design team. A <13¢ USD per-measurement assay based on SYBR Safe dye for STEM educators is also described, enabling quantification of DNA from 0.015-5 ng/µL. Examples of eDNA samples quantified by DIYNAFLUOR are also discussed.