DNA analysis device gives results in minutes

The SNP DR is a portable technology that gives real time accurate test results for specific DNA sequences. It works by analysing genetic differences found in DNA called Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs). These differences can indicate how people may respond to disease, bacteria, viruses, toxins and medication. The device works by analysing the DNA in saliva samples, which are placed in a disposable cartridge and exposed to silicon chip sensors inside the device. Copies of SNPs are contained in the chip. If the device detects a match, a message is displayed on the device's handheld console. The DNA Electronics team believes the innovation will allow physicians to assess their patient in the GP clinic and tailor dosages and treatments accordingly, rather than sending samples to a laboratory for analysis. At present, the SNP Dr takes approximately 30 minutes to analyse a sample. "We see the SNP DR as the perfect aid for doctors, helping them right at the start of treatments, before medications are prescribed to patients," said Professor Chris Toumazou, chief scientist at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at Imperial College London. "If the most appropriate drug dosages could be determined at this stage, it could reduce the number of people admitted to hospital when medication goes wrong." The researchers are hopeful the success of the SNP DR's recent pilot study will bring the device one step closer to mainstream application in the healthcare industry. They now plan to further refine the technology so that more SNPs can be analysed by the device at once.