DNA Biochips for Microbial Pathogen Detection Based on Fluorescence or CMOS Process

Number of pathogenic tick-borne bacteria cause diseases in humans and animals. Wide range of conventional methods as PCR, immuno-based detection, cultivation, reverse line blot or microscopy is available for identification of bacterial pathogens. Although, these methods are used often in laboratories, they do not allow simultaneous detection of wide spectrum of bacteria. DNA chips represent technology for fast, sensitive, relatively cheap and simultaneous detection of microorganisms in biological samples. We have developed the oligo-chip for detection of different tick-borne pathogens. This method is based on detection of fluorescent signal after hybridization reaction by using laser scanner. We are also working on preparation of electronic device for detection of specific contact of two single complementary strands of DNA. This method will allow simple detection without using the fluorescent probes and expensive laser scanner. For this purpose a novel solid-state sensor for detection of bio-molecular processes was developed. The device is compatible with a standard CMOS process, providing fully electronic readout and large-scale of integration of biosensors on a single chip. A model of the device was developed and simulated.