DNA sequencing takes another step towards routine use with the announcement of the portable, miniaturized MinIONTM disposable device which uses nanopores to sense single molecules. In the case of DNA, the bases are read one at a time. Plugging directly into a laptop or desktop computer through a USB port, it is a self-contained device to deliver real-time experimental data.
MinIONTM , developed by Professor Hagan Bayley’s company, Oxford Nanopore, really is a tiny desktop sequencer. It will retail for less than $900 and promises a human DNA sequence in 15 minutes.
If MinIONTM succeeds not only will it revolutionise DNA sequencing in research and clinical use but it will provide a huge boost to the UK’s hi-tech indiustrial capability. Professor Bayley has turned Oxford University’s chemistry department into the largest in the country and it is clear than Silicon Fen now has a challenger. The Thames Valley, currently suffering from swollen watercourses, could soon be more famous for its nanochannels though which billions of DNA bases will be coursing.
MinIONTM , developed by Professor Hagan Bayley’s company, Oxford Nanopore, really is a tiny desktop sequencer. It will retail for less than $900 and promises a human DNA sequence in 15 minutes.
If MinIONTM succeeds not only will it revolutionise DNA sequencing in research and clinical use but it will provide a huge boost to the UK’s hi-tech indiustrial capability. Professor Bayley has turned Oxford University’s chemistry department into the largest in the country and it is clear than Silicon Fen now has a challenger. The Thames Valley, currently suffering from swollen watercourses, could soon be more famous for its nanochannels though which billions of DNA bases will be coursing.
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