Portable multiplex electrochemical sensing platform for plant DNA/RNA detection

Overview

This solution adapts a proven electrochemical biosensing approach—originally validated for rapid SARS-CoV-2 detection—to the agricultural and plant science markets. The platform uses carbon-supported metal chalcogenide nanocomposites, such as ZnS/graphene, as electrode materials that change their electrical signal when target plant nucleic acids hybridize with surface-bound probe DNA. By designing multiplex sensor arrays, integrating Wi-Fi data transmission, and pairing the system with a smartphone application, the team aims to deliver a true point-of-care device for plant pathogen detection, crop diagnostics, and field-based genomic screening.

Technical specifications

• Sensing material: Carbon-supported metal chalcogenide nanocomposites (e.g., ZnS/graphene) synthesized via a simple one-step microwave-assisted route.
• Detection mechanism: Probe DNA immobilized on the electrode surface reduces baseline current; hybridization with target plant DNA/RNA causes double-stranded structures to detach into the electrolyte, restoring and increasing the measurable electrical signal.
• Workflow: Only two steps are required—nucleic acid hybridization and electrical readout—eliminating reverse transcription and long amplification cycles.
• Multiplex capability: Sensor arrays designed to simultaneously detect multiple plant gene targets in a single assay.
• Portability: Wi-Fi-enabled signaling and a companion smartphone application enable on-site, real-time data interpretation without laboratory infrastructure.
• Prior validation: Successfully detected low concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 RNA across S, N, ORF 1a, and ORF 1b gene targets, demonstrating sensitivity and reliability of the core platform.

Technology readiness level

The core electrochemical sensing platform has been validated using clinical SARS-CoV-2 RNA samples and standard nucleic acid targets, establishing proof-of-concept performance. Current development focuses on extending the technology to plant-specific applications through two key tasks: (1) establishing low-cost plant nucleic acid extraction protocols and selecting appropriate DNA/RNA targets for plant biosensor systems, and (2) fabricating and validating multiplexed sensor systems for plant DNA/RNA detection. The platform is at a readiness stage suitable for collaborative development, pilot field trials, and sponsored research partnerships aimed at agricultural and plant diagnostic applications.