DNA test to pinpoint risk of disease

A DNA test that reveals a person’s risk of certain diseases could be developed with technology created at the University.

Scientists have developed a low-cost method of pinpointing variations in a person’s genetic code at critical points along the DNA chain.

The technique could be used to analyse DNA in a drop of saliva.

Diagnosis

This technology offers a speedy, cost-efficient alternative to existing methods of DNA analysis. Our method could help reach the goal of complete genome analysis in a few hours for less than $1000.

Tiny differences or omissions in DNA code can determine whether or not a person is healthy, susceptible to disease, or has a serious or life-threatening condition, such as cystic fibrosis.

The technology seeks to enable improved personal diagnosis, allowing prompt, appropriate treatment for patients.

Inexpensive

The method, based on chemical analysis, delivers reliable results without the need for expensive enzymes used in conventional DNA testing.

Researchers behind the technology will soon test whether it can decode entire human genomes.

The study, published in the journal Angewandte Chemie, was funded by Scottish Enterprise.

We plan to test the technology further, extend our collaborations with leading researchers and companies in the DNA sequencing field and establish our first commercial operations within the next six months.