DNA-Binding Magnetic Nanoreactor Beads for Digital PCR Analysis.

Digital PCR (dPCR) is based on the separation of target amplification reactions into many compartments with randomly distributed template molecules. Here, we present a novel digital PCR format based on DNA binding magnetic nanoreactor beads (mNRBs). Our approach relies on the binding of all nucleic acids present in a sample to the mNRBs, which both provide a high-capacity binding matrix for capturing nucleic acids from a sample and define the space available for PCR amplification by the internal volume of their hydrogel core.

Ultra-precise quantification of mRNA targets across a broad dynamic range with nanoreactor beads.

Precise quantification of molecular targets in a biological sample across a wide dynamic range is a key requirement in many diagnostic procedures, such as monitoring response to therapy or detection of measurable residual disease. State of the art digital PCR assays provide for a dynamic range of four orders of magnitude. However digital assays are complex and require sophisticated microfluidic tools.

Non-pathogenic trypanosomatid protozoa as a platform for protein research and production.

All currently existing eukaryotic protein expression systems are based on autonomous life forms. To exploit the potential practical benefits associated with parasitic organisms we have developed a new protein expression system based on Leishmania tarentolae (Trypanosomatidae), a protozoan parasite of lizards. To achieve strong transcription, the genes of interest were integrated into the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene.