Open AccessOn‐site genetic analysis for species identification using lab‐on‐a‐chip
Author(s) -
Wimbles Ryan,
Melling Louise M.,
Cain Bradley,
Davies Naomi,
Doherty Jason,
Johnson Bridget,
Shaw Kirsty J.
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
ecology and evolution
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.17
H-Index - 63
ISSN - 2045-7758
DOI - 10.1002/ece3.7053
Subject(s) - rhinoceros , microfluidics , loop mediated isothermal amplification , identification (biology) , lab on a chip , computer science , dna extraction , biochemical engineering , biological system , biology , nanotechnology , dna , ecology , engineering , polymerase chain reaction , materials science , genetics , gene
This paper presents a microfluidic device capable of performing genetic analysis on dung samples to identify White Rhinoceros ( Ceratotherium simum ). The development of a microfluidic device, which can be used in the field, offers a portable and cost‐effective solution for DNA analysis and species identification to aid conservation efforts. Optimization of the DNA extraction processes produced equivalent yields compared to conventional kit‐based methods within just 5 minutes. The use of a color‐changing loop‐mediated isothermal amplification reaction for simultaneous detection of the cytochrome B sequence of C. simum enabled positive results to be obtained within as little as 30 minutes. Field testing was performed at Knowsley Safari to demonstrate real‐world applicability of the microfluidic device for testing of biological samples.