Development of thermally-stable water-in-oil emulsions for the creation of DNA micro-reactors in polymerase chain reaction

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SM Research Inc. (SMR) wants to use a novel emulsion-based polymerase chain reaction (emPCR) techniqueto amplify DNA for their highly precise and accurate detection. The emPCR utilizes multiple thermal cycles ofwater-in-oil (W/O) emulsion where the water droplets act as micro-reactors for DNA This could significantlyimprove the efficiency of DNA amplification and allow detection of the extremely low concentration of DNA.However, SMR is facing a significant problem with W/O emulsion destabilization during thermal cycles. In theproposed Engage research project, the researchers from U of S will develop advanced ingredient formulationsusing a fundamental scientific approach that will form the desired W/O emulsion in a simple, easy to usetechnology and remain stable under multiple thermal cycles. A three-step approach will be taken to address thetechnical complexities associated with the problem. The inherent thermodynamic destabilization of emulsionwill be reduced by lowering of interfacial tension using a combination of different types of emulsifiers, whilethe breakage of the inter-droplet film will be prevented by increasing the interfacial elasticity. Finally, closeapproach of the droplets and their sedimentation will be prevented by increasing the viscosity of the continuousoil phase. This type of multi-step approach of prevention of emulsion thermal destabilization is novel and willundoubtedly lead to innovation in emulsion formulation and successful implementation in emPCR.Implementation of this technology will be of tremendous benefit to SMR to establish themselves as a marketleader and to secure global attention in a lucrative gene detection field. With this advanced technology,detection of critical, life-threatening disease could be done at an early stage, thus providing a significant benefitto Canadians for improved health and disease prevention.