Rapid DNA Fingerprinting

Lead Research Organisation: University of Southampton
Department Name: Sch of Chemistry

Abstract

We have developed a micro-array based technology for DNA sequence variation analysis that can provide greater data density than current array approaches, with sensitivity at least equal to fluorescence based methods and that is portable, accurate and rapid. The method is based on recent discoveries in physical and bio-organic chemistry at Southampton University.Faster, cheaper more accurate detection is the ongoing technical objective of all DNA analysis applications and markets and the technical features of this platform provide a sound basis for providing commercial value in multiple applications including forensic DNA analysis, high volume research into genetic variation and molecular diagnostics. Of these applications, forensic analysis of DNA provides the fastest route to market through existing providers with limited technical development required to provide significant commercial benefit. This application of the technology also has the potential to develop significant novel markets in onsite testing in custodial, forensic and security settings. This project will generate application specific proof of concept and commercial traction in the near term, and commercial analysis of onsite testing markets. Together these will provide a robust business plan and proven feasibility which will enable us to obtain further development funding and/or development partnerships.

Publications

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Corrigan DK (2010) Analysis of short tandem repeats by using SERS monitoring and electrochemical melting. in Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)

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Corrigan DK (2010) Analysis of short tandem repeats by using SERS monitoring and electrochemical melting. in Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)

 
Description In this one year project we demonstrated that electrochemical melting of double stranded DNA followed using SERS could be used as a sensitive technique to discriminated short tandem repeats (STRs) of different lengths in the human genome and is, therefore, a potentially useful method that could be developed for use in DNA fingerprinting.

Using two different labels we also showed that we could simultaneously discriminate two separate STRs.
Exploitation Route This work is of potential application in DNA fingerprinting for forensic and other applications. The approach could also be of use in point-of-care diagnostic applications for pharmacogenetics and other applications.
 
Description This work has been continued in collaboration with DSTL to investigate applications in discrimination of bacterial DNA
First Year Of Impact 2013
Sector Healthcare,Security and Diplomacy
 
Description 20th Int. Symposium on Bioelectrochemistry and Bioenergetics 2009 
Form Of Engagement Activity Scientific meeting (conference/symposium etc.)
Part Of Official Scheme? Yes
Type Of Presentation keynote/invited speaker
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other academic audiences (collaborators, peers etc.)
Results and Impact N/A
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2009
 
Description 42nd IUPAC Congress 2009 
Form Of Engagement Activity Scientific meeting (conference/symposium etc.)
Part Of Official Scheme? Yes
Type Of Presentation keynote/invited speaker
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other academic audiences (collaborators, peers etc.)
Results and Impact N/A
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2009
 
Description ECS Regional Meeting 2009 
Form Of Engagement Activity Scientific meeting (conference/symposium etc.)
Part Of Official Scheme? Yes
Type Of Presentation paper presentation
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other academic audiences (collaborators, peers etc.)
Results and Impact N/A
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2009
 
Description IIT Bombay Lecture (2011) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Scientific meeting (conference/symposium etc.)
Part Of Official Scheme? Yes
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other academic audiences (collaborators, peers etc.)
Results and Impact N/A
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2011