Real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) thermocycler for aptamer selection

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Biosensors are important tools for disease diagnosis and environmental monitoring. Protein enzymes and antibodies are the traditional molecules of choice for biosensor design. In recent years, however, aptamers are emerging as a useful alternative. Aptamers are single-stranded nucleic acids that can bind target molecules with high affinity and specificity. Compared to antibodies, aptamers have similar or better binding performance, but are lower in cost, higher in stability, and easier to modify. With all these attributes, however, no aptamer is currently used in practical disease diagnosis. The Principal Investigator (PI) aims to push practical applications of aptamers by understanding fundamental molecular interactions in aptamer binding, developing new aptamer selection methods for important metabolites and environmental contaminants, and performing detections in serum and environmental samples. In aptamer selection, a critical step is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which allows exponential amplification of DNA sequences with desired binding properties. Real time PCR is the state-of-the-art technique for monitoring the PCR process and thus is highly valuable for optimization of PCR conditions and troubleshooting. The PI's group needs to optimize PCR conditions on a daily basis and this real time PCR thermocycler can increase the productivity of the research group significantly. A possible delay in acquiring this instrument will have a large adverse effect on the PI's group, especially at its early development stage. Students will be trained to use this instrument and become experts in this technique. Trained students will be qualified for positions in analytical laboratories, biotechnological companies and in academics. The research is likely to produce useful sensors that can improve health care, environmental protection, and the quality of life.