Biomarkers (a molecule that occurs naturally are used to detect a particular physiological process) play a key role in the diagnosis of diseases. A biomarker can be found in the blood, urine, or different types of tissues. Some of the biomarkers which can detect fatal diseases are present in very low concentration and diagnosis of diseases through them can be quite challenging. To cater this problem, researchers of Ludwing-Maximilians -Universitaet (LMU) in Munich, Germany, developed a prototype that would aid in medical diagnostics.
By the prototype, one can directly detect small fragments of DNA in blood serum by the use of the smartphone-based microscope. It operates on a conventional USB power pack to monitor the assay. Moreover, the laser and lens used by the Munich scientist are now available in most of the smartphone which makes it feasible and low in cost. The aim of the new prototype is to offer the diagnostic test in remote areas where access to electricity, laboratory equipment, or both are not feasible.
Various companies and universities were working on these DNA-based nano-antenna technologies for many years. However, the fabrication of the nanostructures was challenging. After the prototype, it is possible to configure the components of nano-antennas more precisely and the signal can be amplified. Besides, with the new prototype invented, minuscule volume even in the order of zeptoliters (a zeptoliter equals 10^-21 of a liter), can be studied. As per the scientist of Munich University, now billions of nano-antennas can be produced in a sample by the use of these new prototype.
