Transforming Disease diagnosis with Light-Controlled Bioassays

Researchers at the University of Freiburg and the INM-Leibniz Institute for New Materials have developed light-controlled bioassays called OptoAssays. These bioassays can eliminate multiple steps of mechanical pumps or washing, thus making it possible for the sensitive, bidirectional analysis applicable to point-of-care diagnostics in resource-limited settings.

These new assays have bypassed most of the shortcomings of presently available bioassays because they do not rely on the use of mechanical pumps and washing steps, thus making them suitable for point-of-care diagnostics. These new testing methods rely on simple LEDs to replace complex mechanical pumps to make the diagnosis easy by emulating the biological mechanism.

Science Behind OptoAssays: How Light Revolutionizes Bioassays

OptoAssays is the extension of a family of conventional bioassays by light-dependent and reversible optogenetic switches. A simple change in wavelength of light can reverse the directionality of assay component mobility, thus providing an unprecedented degree of freedom for any test methods used. Concerning the dynamic nature, it is worthwhile to note that both the simplicity of diagnosis and the flexibility of the assay format improve.

Demonstrating exceptional efficacy, the OptoAssay has been calibrated using a competitive model assay, achieving a remarkable limit of detection of 8 pg/ml. This sensitivity surpasses that of conventional ELISA tests, making OptoAssays a powerful tool in the realm of diagnostics. The ability to perform with such precision highlights the potential of these light-controlled assays in accurately detecting low concentrations of target biomolecules.

 3D-printed PhotoBox that allows for sample illumination and signal readout for the envisioned POC scenario. 

Future of diagnostics: sustainable, user-friendly.

Perhaps the most exciting advantage of OptoAssays is their compatibility with standard off-the-shelf smartphones, which may change diagnostics performed in the real world. Indeed, OptoAssays avoid the use of common external flow control systems such as pumps and valves, thereby allowing for on-site analysis in resource-limited environments. Such innovation will reduce costs while increasing access to essential diagnostic tools and will make healthcare more equitable.

Introducing light-controlled bioassays is a huge leap in medical diagnostics. As such, light and biogenic material-based solutions like the OptoAssays promise to make testing easy, though more sensitive and accessible. Direct point-of-care diagnostics would transform health care delivery with the integration of such technologies as represented by OptoAssays. This interaction of technology with biologists truly epitomises the innovative.

Know more about OptoAssays here.