• DNA origami for multiplex rapid nucleic acid based diagnosis
  • Sina Alemohammad,1,* Zahra Saremi,2
    1. Jundishapur university of Medical Sciences
    2. Lorestan university of Medical Sciences


  • Introduction: Nucleic acids, like DNA and RNA, play a crucial role in diagnosing a wide range of diseases, including cancers, infectious diseases, and genetic disorders. So the role of these biomarkers is becoming more important. Traditional detection methods, such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), offer high sensitivity but often require laboratory settings and complex equipment, limiting their use for point-of-care testing IVD. Furthermore, multiplex PCR has limitations.Due to the widening applications of nucleic acid biomarkers, the need for POC IVD is increasing.Origami DNA is a novel emerging technology to design self-assemble 2D & 3D nanostructures easily. This promising technology integrates various fields e.g. drug delivery, photonics & plasmonics, and biosensing. DNA origami biosensors can sensitively detect multiple nucleic acids simultaneously without amplification at the point of care. In this review, we will explore the different biosensing strategies.
  • Methods: In this review, 46 original articles have been analyzed. Articles were published within the past 5-10 years to ensure the information reflects current advancements in origami DNA technology. Articles were published in peer-reviewed scientific journals with a strong reputation in the field of nanotechnology or biosensing.
  • Results: As origami DNA-based biosensing is a new technology, there is no standard method or design for it. researchers use different strategies for readouts and quantifications of nucleic acids. However, moreover designs have a similar concept named the Recognition Unit. This Recognition Unit is a DNA origami structure designed to bind to target nucleic acid based on a complementary sequence between target nucleic acid and free single-strand DNA in the nanostructure. The Recognition Unit is designed differently in different studies. Book design and beacon design seem more promising. Recognition Unit coupled with Transducer which produces a signal. Transducers can use different strategies for example Fluorescence-Based, Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET)-Based, Quenching-Based, Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS)-Based Sensors. Among this strategy Quenching-Based and Fret seems more promising and provide higher accuracy.
  • Conclusion: A Glimpse into the Future of Multiplex Diagnostics The impressive results discussed highlight the immense potential of origami DNA for revolutionizing multiplex diagnostics. Its ability for sensitive, specific, and simultaneous detection of multiple targets offers significant advantages over traditional methods. The possibility of developing user-friendly assays opens doors for point-of-care applications, particularly in regions lacking sophisticated laboratory infrastructure. However, challenges remain. Optimizing origami design for complex biomarker panels and ensuring cost-effectiveness for widespread adoption are crucial steps. Additionally, further research is needed to validate the long-term stability and storage of origami-based diagnostic kits. Despite these hurdles, the future of origami DNA in multiplex diagnostics is bright. Continued research and development have the potential to overcome these limitations. As the technology matures, we can expect to see origami DNA play a pivotal role in personalized medicine, enabling early detection and targeted treatment of various diseases. The ability to conduct rapid and accurate diagnoses at the point-of-care holds immense promise for improving global healthcare outcomes. In conclusion, origami DNA stands as a powerful and innovative platform for the future of multiplex diagnostics, paving the way for a more precise and accessible approach to disease management.
  • Keywords: Origami DNA, nanostructures, multiplex diagnosis, early diagnosis, biosensors,