3D printer shows potential for DNA amplification

A study published by PLOS ONE discusses how researchers repurposed 3D printers to perform sample preparation and DNA amplification, slashing the cost of these products by thousands of dollars.

Most sample preparation and DNA amplification products can cost upwards of $15,000, but researchers were able to use 3D printers to perform both automated nucleic acid extraction and DNA amplification for roughly $700. The researchers replaced the printer’s extruder with a tip-comb attachment that houses magnets to conduct magnetic particle-based nucleic acid extraction.

“The lack of capable devices that are low-cost and can perform high-quality and consistent NA isolation is the primary limiting factor in adapting POC molecular diagnostic tests. Diagnostic tests intended for POC use should focus on being cheaper, more intuitive, and more robust to operate,” wrote led author Kamfai Chan and colleagues. “Therefore, there is an urgent need to commercialize an affordable, sensitive and specific sample preparation device for POC use. A simple, low-cost alternative to conventional lab-based equipment would greatly reduce the barriers to providing modern medical diagnostics to low- and middle-income countries.”

The modified printer can process 12 samples at the same time for nucleic acid extraction in under 13 minutes as well as having the same quality of DNA extraction as the standard spin-column method. In regard to amplifying DNA, the printer is equipped with two heaters which are common in 3D printers. The study showed that the 3D printer was able to perform the amplification at an efficiency rate similar to other methods.

Researchers hope that this low-cost 3D printer will open up opportunities for diagnostics of infectious diseases in resource-limited settings and pan to continue to upgrade this technology for other applications.