PCR-Based Diagnostics Move Out of the Lab and into the Field

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 11 Sep 2014

Researchers in New Zealand have revealed a novel battery-powered, handheld quantitative PCR analyzer for use under field conditions to detect minute levels of viral or bacterial DNA.

Investigators at the University of Otago (New Zealand) recently described a robust unit weighing about the same as a typical laptop computer and able to fit on the palm of the hand. The so-called "Freedom4" instrument boasts a six-hour battery life and can be attached by cable to a laptop computer, or connected wirelessly to a smart phone or tablet computer that is running a custom software application able to analyze and interpret the test results.

Image: The Freedom4 PCR unit for field use was developed by (L-R) Ms. Christy Rand, Mr. Chris Mason, Dr. Chris Rawle, and Dr. Jo-Ann Stanton (Photo courtesy of the University of Otago).

“We are immensely proud that we have created this brilliant device; there is currently no other system in the world that compares in terms of the analytical power we have achieved at this level of mobility and ease of use, said Dr. Jo-Ann Stanton, senior research fellow in the department of anatomy at the University of Otago. “This mobility could provide a great boon for farmers. For instance, vets could drive around a farm analyzing samples from various locations, make their diagnoses and treat infected animals—all in one trip.”

A prototype Freedom4 instrument was evaluated by the New Zealand Institute of Environmental and Scientific Research (Wellington). Results obtained by assays for toxin-producing E. coli, and several gastrointestinal and respiratory viruses—including the H1N1 serotype influenza virus—were said to correlate well with those from much larger laboratory-based DNA analysis systems.

Related Links:
University of Otago
New Zealand Institute of Environmental and Scientific Research