Rapid electrochemical detection platform for RNA and DNA sequence markers
A patent-pending electrochemical detection system that identifies specific RNA or DNA sequences in un-purified biological samples in under 15 minutes. The technology delivers PCR-level sensitivity and specificity at approximately $1 per test, with applications in human diagnostics, plant genomics, and point-of-care testing using inexpensive, portable equipment.
Overview
This electrochemical detection platform enables rapid, low-cost identification of specific RNA and DNA sequence markers directly in crude biological samples, eliminating the need for nucleic acid extraction or purification. Validated on 800 un-purified human samples including nasal swabs, urine, saliva, and blood, the system demonstrated 100% concordance with laboratory qPCR results for both COVID-19 and Chlamydia trachomatis detection. The technology is equally applicable to plant genomic material, supporting a wide range of diagnostic and research use cases.
Technical specifications
The platform couples an isothermal amplification-based nucleic acid detection method with an electrochemical reaction that produces an electrical current as read-out. Key features include:
- Sample tolerance: Detects target sequences in un-purified specimens, including samples containing aggregates, colour, or other impurities that interfere with fluorescence or colour-based detection methods
- Speed: Results available in under 15 minutes as an end-point test, with real-time quantitative measurement reducing detection time to 2–3 minutes for high-concentration targets
- Sensitivity and specificity: Detection limit of 0.1 attomolar; 100% agreement with gold-standard qPCR across 800 tests
- Low consumable cost: Approximately $1 per test
- Scalability and multiplexing: Engineering supports batch testing of multiple genetic markers in a single reaction
- Portability: Electrical signal output enables direct connection to handheld devices such as smartphones, supporting inexpensive point-of-care device design
- Sample flexibility: Small leaf punches or unhomogenised plant material can be added directly to the reaction without further processing
Technology readiness level
The technology has been validated on un-purified human samples with 100% concordance to diagnostic laboratory testing across 800 individual tests covering COVID-19 and Chlamydia trachomatis. A patent application has been filed via the PCT route. The platform is positioned to produce a point-of-care device with a workflow comparable to rapid antigen tests while achieving PCR-level sensitivity and specificity. Ongoing development includes batch multiplexing, real-time quantitative measurement, SNP detection validation, and adaptation for plant genomic sample processing. Estimated timeline for these validation activities is approximately six months.
About Australian National University
Australian National University is a comprehensive public research university in Canberra with a national mandate and global outlook. Industry partners access on-campus national supercomputing, micro- and nanofabrication capabilities, prototyping spaces, and clinical research pathways through affiliations with the Canberra Hospital. Proximity to Australia’s federal agencies and adjacency to CSIRO enable collaboration on policy, standards, and translational science, while a regional innovation network connects companies to talent and startups. Research is underpinned by competitive national funding, including the Australian Research Council and National Health and Medical Research Council, alongside government and industry contracts. A dedicated technology transfer office and a university-owned enterprise arm support IP, licensing, and spinout creation.
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