Background/problem
Detection of infectious diseases relies on amplification techniques of genetic material such as RNA or DNA. State-of-the-art amplification techniques include RT-PCR and RT-LAMP, both of which use a reverse transcriptase (RT) to amplify RNA. Usually, an RNA strand is reverse transcribed into complementary DNA (cDNA), which is then amplified using DNA polymerase. In the first step of this process, cDNA is made from an RNA template using deoxyribonucleotide phosphates, RT, and DNA primers. Synthesis of cDNA from the RNA template can be hindered by RNA secondary and tertiary structures which can be resolved by carrying out the reaction at a higher temperature (e.g., above 50°C.) or by adding denaturing additives. However, the addition of denaturing additives is undesirable because it often reduces RT activity. Higher temperatures may have the advantage of increasing the specificity of DNA synthesis by decreasing non-specific primer binding.
Unfortunately, only a limited number of RTs that can operate at high temperature are currently available, and these exhibit relatively low fidelity DNA polymerization. Alternatively, for loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) processes, better strand-displacing and thermostable DNA polymerases (DNAPs) are also needed for ultra-fast reactions. Given the limitations of high-fidelity RTs and DNAPs operable at high temperatures, there is need for improved suite of reagents to improve upon current amplification techniques. As an example of this problem, there was a shortage of testing kits early in the Covid-19 pandemic.
Technology overview
A patented bio-engineered technology has optimized reverse transcriptase (RT) and DNA polymerase (DNAP) enzymes, crucial for rapid viral disease detection. This advancement enables <10 min loop-mediated isothermal amplification with enhanced thermotolerance and strand-displacing capabilities (LAMP-OSD). This breakthrough offers a low-cost, point-of-care solution suitable for resource-limited settings, bypassing the need for complex infrastructure and training. By improving diagnostic speed and accessibility, this innovation holds promise for significant global health impact and commercial opportunities. The University of Texas at Austin seeks industry collaboration to bring this transformative technology to market.
Benefits
- Low-cost rapid diagnosis of viral diseases, amenable to low resource settings
- Gold standard RT-qPCR diagnostics needs clinical lab infrastructure and machines, trained operators, and several hours for results. This patented LAMP-OSD point-of-care nucleic acid testing method is proven, rapid, and accurate.
Opportunity
This technology presents an unparalleled opportunity to revolutionize the landscape of infectious disease diagnostics. By addressing the unmet needs of speed, accessibility, and performance, our innovative solution holds the potential to significantly impact public health outcomes on a global scale while simultaneously unlocking new avenues for commercial growth and market expansion. The University of Texas at Austin is seeking an industry partner to commercialize this technology.
