Thu Sep 26 15:04:40 UTC 2024: ## Light-Powered Lab Tests: New Technology Mimics Nature to Revolutionize Diagnostics
**Saarbrücken, Germany -** Researchers have developed a new, light-powered method for conducting complex biological tests, potentially revolutionizing medical diagnostics. This “OptoAssay” utilizes light-emitting diodes (LEDs) instead of expensive and bulky mechanical pumps to control the flow of reagents, mimicking the natural process of light-activated proteins in plant cells.
The OptoAssay works by utilizing a special protein that reacts to light, binding or releasing specific molecules depending on the wavelength of light it receives. By alternating between red and far-red light, researchers can control the movement of biomolecules within the test system, eliminating the need for complex pumping systems.
The inspiration for this technology comes directly from nature, specifically from how plants use light to control their growth. The photoreceptor protein used in the OptoAssay is derived from plants and produced by bacteria, offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional mechanical components.
“OptoAssays can easily be controlled and read using smartphones,” says Dr. Can Dincer from the University of Freiburg. “They pave the way for new diagnostic tools that enable cost-effective and straightforward analyses directly on-site, even in resource-limited settings.”
This innovation has the potential to significantly impact point-of-care diagnostics, allowing for faster and more accessible testing outside of traditional laboratory settings. The team believes this technology could be used in a wide range of applications, from pregnancy tests to diagnosing diseases like COVID-19.
**About the Research:**
This research was conducted by a team from the University of Freiburg and the INM—Leibniz Institute for New Materials in Saarbrücken. Their findings were published in the journal Science Advances.
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