Envirologix: Putting Science to the Test

Isothermal DNA Amplification (NEAR) Poster Presented at 2009 APS Annual Meeting

Portland, ME – August 3, 2009 – EnviroLogix presented a technical poster at the 2009 APS Annual Meeting previewing a new rapid isothermal amplification technology. The poster is entitled Nicking Enzyme Amplification Reaction (NEAR), an Isothermal Nucleic Acid Based Technology for Point-of-Testing of Plant Pathogens.

Poster Overview


EnviroLogix is developing rapid and easy-to-use DNA-based assays adaptable to a point-of-testing environment by employing a novel isothermal amplification technology called Nicking Enzyme Amplification Reaction (NEAR). Current immunodiagnostic platforms are unable to meet customer needs for on-site, high sensitivity detection, and the existing PCR platform is costly, time-consuming, and requires expensive equipment. NEAR is a very rapid, highly specific isothermal amplification technology that can amplify DNA or RNA targets with single base resolution a billion-fold in 5-10 minutes at a constant temperature. NEAR uses a nicking enzyme and a strand-displacing polymerase to generate small pieces of DNA that feed a DNA extension reaction; alternating cycles of nicking and extension lead to exponential amplification.

NEAR offers sensitivity and specificity that is equal to or better than current PCR methods. However, unlike PCR, the NEAR assay shows little inhibitory effects from a crude extraction or exogenous DNA. As a result the NEAR assay allows for detection of less than 50 genome copies with minimal to no sample preparation. Our data confirms the high specificity of the assay with no cross-reactivity to closely related bacteria or synthetic mismatch targets.

The NEAR assay encompasses multiple readout options, including fluorescent detection with molecular beacons or a simple and instrument-independent visual detection with lateral flow strip housed in a self-contained device. The exquisite assay sensitivity, speed and minimal equipment make it an ideal choice for point-of-testing and field deployable systems.

Click here to view the poster.

Click here to request a higher-resolution, printable copy of the poster.

PDF files, where provided, require Adobe Acrobat Reader.

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