Development of a Lab-on-a-Chip Device to Detect DNA Double...

Proposal Summary We propose to develop a lab-on-a-chip device for the detection of DNA double strand breaks in situ. Current technology requires laborious manipulation of the cell sample by fixation and staining with antibody and an optical-based detection. All in all, the process may take up to several days before results are retrieved. The development of an on-site, immediate monitoring system will greatly benefit our understanding of DNA damage causes and prevention as well assessment of radiation risk by tracking such events instantaneously. Our proposed device is based on individually addressable carbon-nanotube (CNT)- array capable of multiplexing for detection of multiple analytes and targets from a biological sample. The impact of this device in our information-based world is manifold. Not only will the device make it accessible for the user to track, assess and follow trends of their own DNA damage levels but also empowers the user in making more informed lifestyle choices. Introduction With rising urbanization, the DNA in our cells is increasingly being exposed to DNA damaging agents such as UV light, mutagenic chemicals, reactive oxygen species generated by Ionizing Radiation (IR) or redox cycling by heavy metal ions and radio-mimetic drugs etc. DNA Double-strand breaks (DSBs) occur when reactive oxygen species react with DNA bases causing lesions in the chromosomes and the formation of foci known as Radiation-induced foci (RFI). RFI are marked by the