A new method is proposed for sequencing a single DNA molecule via direct electronic measurement of individual bases. The method utilizes a protein pore in a newly discovered suspended lipid bilayer configuration that simple electronic models and calculations show offers a factor of ten sensitivity improvement in measurement of the pore blocking current. A second key innovation is to separate the means used to induce the ionic current through the pore from the means used to drive DNA translocation through the pore, allowing each to be optimized separately. In Phase I the key questions relating to the second innovation will be investigated and the performance of a complete system projected. In Phase II, a preliminary laboratory apparatus that combines all elements of the system in a basic form will be evaluated. This program is a collaboration between Electronic Bio Sciences LLC (EBS), pioneers in the development of new ultra low noise electronic readout architectures for biology, the group of Professor Henry White, the inventors of the new suspended membrane configuration, and Professor David Deamer, a pioneer in the science of DNA translocation through protein pores. The proposed direct electronic sequencing of DNA method could allow the ability for routine sequencing of the human genome. In theory this system would allow a 3 billion base mammalian genome to be sequenced in under an hour, a 1000 times improvement over current systems. Such rapid low cost sequencing could be used to obtain individualized information on predisposition to diseases and treatments and could thereby revolutionize medicine. ? ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
3R43HG004466-01S1
Application #
7649805
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-BCMB-L (10))
Program Officer
Schloss, Jeffery
Project Start
2007-09-19
Project End
2008-09-10
Budget Start
2007-09-19
Budget End
2008-09-10
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2008
Total Cost
$105,073
Indirect Cost
Name
Electronic Biosciences, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
129852864
City
San Diego
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
92121
Lathrop, Daniel K; Ervin, Eric N; Barrall, Geoffrey A et al. (2010) Monitoring the escape of DNA from a nanopore using an alternating current signal. J Am Chem Soc 132:1878-85