Sensing device set to improve DNA sequencing

The system, which combines a solid-state nanopore with a technique known as DNA origami, is expected to make the prediction and diagnosis of disease more efficient, and individualised treatment more affordable. According to lead researcher Dr Ulrich Keyser, of the university's Cavendish Laboratory Keyser, the technology allows DNA origami structures - small, well controlled shapes made of DNA - to be formed into any shape, so that only molecules of a certain shape can pass through the nanopore. "This level of control allows for far more detailed analysis of the molecule, which is particularly important for applications such as phenotyping or gene sequencing," he explained. The technology has been licensed for development and commercialisation to UK based company Oxford Nanopore. Recent research by the team has shown that up to 16 measurements can be taken simultaneously, allowing for much higher data throughput and screening of different DNA origami structures.