Low-cost at-home SNP genotyping using shaken digital LAMP

Overview

Fluid Discovery presents an innovative at-home SNP genotyping solution utilizing the Shaken Digital LAMP (sdLAMP) method. This platform enables users to conduct low-cost (~$10/kit), rapid (<1 hour), and multiplexed genotyping of SNPs associated with micronutrient deficiencies. The system involves a simple saliva or cheek swab collection, which is mixed with a single reagent. The mixture is then converted into droplets via shaking and incubated, allowing for allele-specific reactions. The results are binary readouts captured through fluorescence imaging, making it accessible for home use with a smartphone add-on.

Technical specifications

• Key Features:
  • Utilizes isothermal amplification combined with digital droplet analysis.
  • Compatible with at-home setups, requiring no sample purification.
  • Current platform supports 2-plex formats with future expansion to 4–5 SNPs.
  • Dual-height readout chip minimizes false positives and ensures qPCR-level accuracy.
  • Cost-effective at approximately $10 per kit.
• Validation and Future Plans:
  • System validated on over 150 patient samples with equivalent accuracy to gold-standard assays.
  • Future work includes developing assays for specific SNPs related to micronutrient metabolism and validating these against synthetic constructs and genomic standards.
  • Plans to deliver a lyophilized, multiplex prototype kit achieving ≥95% analytical accuracy.

Technology readiness level

The Shaken Digital LAMP platform has reached a Technology Readiness Level of 6, indicating it has been demonstrated in a relevant environment and is undergoing further validation for home use applications.