We're not saying you could use it to clone Jurassic Park dinosaurs, but we're not not saying that's what you could do!
The current method of DNA assembly that is used in the laboratory has some technical limitations, which increase the time for the DNA to assemble and reduce the overall quality of the DNA samples. The newest technique and prototype level equipment can create long strands of DNA, but there are some errors and kinks. Each step in the process needs to be carefully monitored for these errors, and it takes weeks to a month to fully assemble a new COVID variant. This project will be focusing on improving the tools and methods to reduce the assembly time and increase the quality of the DNA products. The main objective of the proposed project is to develop a real-time PCR thermocycler that does the same function as a PCR thermocycler but also monitors the amplification level of the DNA by adding fluorescence reading. A DIY qPCR thermocycler prototype would be a major advantage for decreasing the delay in COVID variant production and how we can improve the process of building DNA.
Cost-effective design for PCR experimentation (under $400)
A small portable design equipped with its own energy source to run a PCR experiment (less than 1 lb)
Acceleration of DNA assembly process (can quantify the DNA samples)
Potential application for infectious diseases
Interested in a demo for this device? Please come visit: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AH0uNJvgZB0 and visit our "User Guide" page!
This project was made by Allisya Khairil Annuar, Moriah Jewett, Boren Tan, Tianhe Xiao, and Yeihoon Choi.
Mentored by Melissa Ledgerwood
University of California, San Diego
Department of Bioengineering
Senior Design
Page created by Yeihoon Choi