DNA-Based Biosensing Tech Brings New Innovations

From finger-stick and continuous glucose monitoring, to urine-based pregnancy testing and COVID-19 antigen saliva tests, biosensing technology can be found throughout healthcare.

Now, some of the field’s latest breakthroughs are coming via DNA-based biosensing, enabling precise diagnostics thanks to its ability to continuously track and report on real-time patient data at a biomolecular level.

“DNA-based biosensing technology has come a long way from its early beginnings, emerging as a transformative force in the healthcare industry,” said Nutromics’ Head of Biosensors, Rob Batchelor in a story with Med Device Online.

“A biosensor is a device that combines a biological component, such as DNA, enzymes, or antibodies, with a transducer [an electronic device that converts one form of energy to another, such as thermometers and pressure sensors] to detect and convert a molecular response into a signal.

“The signal, typically optical or electrical, can then be processed and analyzed to provide information about a specific biological process or molecule.”

Batchelor noted that adding a biological component such as DNA to a medical sensor device significantly boosted its specificity when detecting and monitoring targeted molecules.

“DNA-based biosensors can be designed to measure the concentration of specific biomolecules, such as drugs or hormones, in patients’ samples… This is essential for monitoring therapeutic drug levels in patients undergoing treatment,” said Batchelor.

One example sees DNA-based sensors bound to the intravenous infusion drug known as vancomycin, used in the treatment of potentially life-threatening infections such as severe staphylococcal and sepsis.

“Developing diagnostics and accelerating novel treatments are paramount to creating a more proactive healthcare system where clinicians and patients are empowered to make decisions based on molecular-level data,” said Batchelor.

“As research continues and technology evolves, even more innovative applications are expected that will further improve our understanding of health and disease, ultimately enhancing the quality of human life.”

Check out the full story via Med Device Online.