Standard DVD drives can now be used as a laser scanning microscope for low-cost diagnostics of biomolecules. Scientists from the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) shows in a recent publication in the journal Lab on a Chip that existing optics in DVD drives can with some modifications be used as an inexpensive alternative for diagnostics in the field.

 

The novel DVD platform, which integrates sample handling and detection, is an inexpensive system for analysis of biomolecules, such as DNA, RNA, protein and even whole cells. The platform builds on existing fluidic and optical technologies, such as the commercial DVD drive, and can be produced in large quantities. The low-cost makes this kind of device a preferred choice for diagnostics performed close to the patient and with fast processing times so that the patient does not have to leave and return, so called point of care diagnostics. As proof of concept CD4+ cells were captured from whole blood and visualized with the DVD-based laser scanning microscope (DVD-LSM).

‘We have used an existing DVD platform and converted into a novel platform for biomolecule analysis’, says Assoc. Prof. Aman Russom, group leader of the Clinical Microfluidics group in the division of Proteomics and Nanobiotechnology. ‘We have benefited from more than 30 years of progress in the optical disc industry and included finesses such as temperature and rotational control into this robust system to develop a prototype for low-cost point of care diagnostics’, says Aman Russom.

One of the key strengths with the system is that it allows image resolution down to 1 μm. This is a unique feature and also something that has been picked up by Nature Photonics, one of the most prestigious journals in the photonics field, who presents this study in the April issue.

The study was sponsored in part by the European Commission through the project FP7 Digital sequencing.

Publication:

Lab on DVD: standard DVD drives as a novel laser scanning microscope for image based point of care diagnostics

Ramachandraiah, H., Amasia, M., Cole, J., Sheard, P., Pickhaver, S., Walker, C., Wirta, V., Lexow, P., Lione R., and Russom, A.

Lab on a Chip, online 4 February 2013

Read the scientific article

Link to Nature Photonics News and Views


The Science for Life Laboratory is a joint effort between four Swedish universities, Karolinska Institute, The Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), Stockholm University and Uppsala University. The centre combines advanced technology with a broad knowledge in translational medicine and molecular biosciences. SciLifeLab is a new national strategic investment in life science research that demands large-scale and specialized infrastructure. SciLifeLab has the goal to become one of the leading research centres in the world within the areas of Health and Environment.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Ok!Read More
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled

Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.

Non-necessary

Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.