Professor Hyun Gyu Park of the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering reported on April 21 that he had developed an electrochemical real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using methylene blue – a heterocyclic aromatic compound that can be used to stain nucleic acids.

PCR is a method used in almost all studies where the manipulation of genetic material is required where the target genetic sequence is amplified. Real-time PCR allows for real-time monitoring and analysis of this genetic material.

The most commonly used real-time PCR method, which utilizes fluorescent signals, requires high-priced equipment and reagents. In comparison, the newly developed electrochemical method is simpler, more cost effective and above all, has the advantage of allowing the miniaturization of analysis equipment.

Professor Park and his research team observed a reduction in the strength of the electrochemical signal produced by methylene blue when it combines with nucleic acids. They then applied this phenomenon to PCR to create an electrochemical PCR method which is capable of real-time detection of target genetic material.

The research team used a small chip with printed electrodes to perform their research on the genetic material of Chlamydia trachomatis, a pathogen responsible for a sexually transmitted disease. The results showed that this new method performed nearly identically to the conventional fluorescence based real-time PCR method, demonstrating that the newly developed method is fit for use in genetic research.

“Even though real-time PCR technology is the most accurate method for genetic analysis, it requires expensive detection equipment and reagents as it is based on fluorescence. As a result of the new research, it will be possible to dramatically reduce time and expenses spent on genetic analysis,” explained Professor Park.

This research was sponsored by the National Research Foundation of Korea and in recognition of its importance, was selected for the cover article of The Analyst journal.