The invention involves the application of triangular gold (AuTNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgTNPs) as efficient nanoheaters for machine-free nucleic acid amplification assays. These nanoparticles are synthesized using a simple, cost-effective method and demonstrate high photothermal stability and efficiency. This innovation addresses the limitations of current PCR technologies by providing a robust, scalable, and low-cost alternative for rapid and efficient DNA amplification.
Type of IP
Category of Patent
Department
This technology could significantly lower the costs and complexity of nucleic acid amplification, making it more accessible for research and diagnostics, especially in resource-limited settings. It has the potential to enhance rapid disease detection and personalized medicine, improving public health outcomes.
- Enhanced Stability: The triangular shape prevents deformation under high-temperature conditions, ensuring consistent performance over multiple PCR cycles without the need for additional stabilizing coatings.
- Efficient Photothermal Conversion: Efficient light-to-heat conversion enables rapid heating, reducing the overall time required for PCR cycles and improving amplification efficiency.
- Tunable Plasmonic Properties: The plasmonic properties of triangular gold and silver nanoparticles can be tuned by adjusting their size, shape, and composition. This tunability allows for precise control over their optical and thermal properties, enabling customization for specific PCR applications and experimental conditions.
- Compatibility with Various PCR Platforms: It can be seamlessly integrated into existing PCR platforms, including traditional thermal cyclers and microfluidic devices. Their compatibility with different PCR systems enhances their versatility and applicability across diverse research and diagnostic settings.
4
TRL 4
Biotechnology, Medical Diagnostics, Pharmaceutical Research, Nanotechnology, Genetic Engineering
- Biomedical Research: Enhancing nucleic acid amplification techniques for genetic studies and research
- Pharmaceutical Research: Facilitating drug development and testing through improved PCR methods.
- Genetic Engineering: Improving techniques for gene editing and cloning through efficient nucleic acid amplification.