NanoLab: Handheld Diagnostic Laboratory

Speakers: Drew Hall and Rich Gaster, Shan X. Wang Group

Friday, May 22, 12-1 pm, McCullough 115


Abstract

In third world countries, access to medical diagnostic laboratories and well
trained technicians is limited. As a result, the majority of diagnoses in
these regions are based upon patient signs and symptoms. While this method
of patient care is suitable in straightforward situations such as diagnosing
the flu, the vast majority of illnesses cannot be determined by simple
observation. In contrast, in the developed world, medical decision-making is
increasingly based on molecular testing where quantitative detection of
disease-specific proteins in serum and other bodily fluids has become the
basis behind virtually any therapy. Here, we present a technology that will
make it feasible to bring the same diagnostic potential of the developed
world to third world countries or the patient’s home. More specifically, we
have designed a handheld device capable of quantitative multiplex protein
detection in a very simple to use, wash-free assay that is more sensitive
than the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), the current gold
standard in protein detection. Due to the ease of use, portability, and low
cost, our platform could have a very broad impact on society ranging from
molecular diagnostics in remote villages in Africa (which lack laboratory
equipment and skilled technicians) to over the counter home diagnostics kits
that can be purchased at your local pharmacy.

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Pizzas will be served.