710055Rapid point of care DNA extraction systemClosedGRD Proof of ConceptInnovate UKThe end goal of the project is the proof of concept demonstrator for rapid extraction of high quality DNA that could be performed in the field. Existing techniques either require significant expertise and manpower, large automation systems or are simply too time consuming to be performed in a ‘while you wait' situation. The ability to perform low cost and rapid DNA extractions out of the laboratory environment would be of great benefit in markets such as forensics, human medicine and pen side animal testing. The core technology could also be incorporated into larger laboratory based systems to further broaden the market for the technology. The core technology being explored in the proposal would be suitable for incorporation into a wide range of other instrumentation as well as being able to be marketed as either a stand alone laboratory system or field based and handheld unit. Currently there is only a single system available in the marketplace that incorporates this step and it is considerably more time consuming and expensive than the approach being considered in this proposal.It isd also not portable so would miss a key niche:the Point of Care(POC) one. The key benefit in the marketplace would be the time taken for extraction and the minimal number of steps required. Traditional approaches requiring multiple steps and additional reagents or equipment such as magnetic beads and centrifuges. The proposed proof of concept is to rapidly lyse the cells containing the DNA by optimised ‘Ultra-rapid’freeze thawing cycles in a suitable buffer medium. This would reduce the time taken to extract the DNA to less than 5 minutes. This could then be incorporated into downstream processes provided by many other companies, hence bringing in licensing revenue, but also combined with BioGene's rapid PCR technology and therefore making a UK built portable DNA testing system that is low cost,'world's fastest' and portable..all unique user benefits. Whilst the POC market is a key one,the low cost of ownership and compact size would allow penetration of the lab market. BioGene manufacture their own instrumentation and have a dedicated team of scientists and engineers and as as a result are well placed to realise the aims of thee project within the proscribed timescales.