challenge for a next generation sequencing technology is: reading-out of letters in the genetic code corresponding to three billion base pairs in a human genome with no loss of information at very low read-out cost per genome. The sheer complexity of the task has led to one common approach in third generation sequencing technologies - discretization or piecemeal sequencing. These next generation methods include high-throughput massively parallel approaches, sequencing by synthesis, sequencing by degradation, sequencing by hybridization, nanopore based techniques, among others. In case of nanopore based sequencing technologies, both biological and solid state nanopores, another common strategy employed has been to significantly slow-down the translocation of DNA through a nanopore to aid the probing of the DNA chain. Strategies such as these, which have been employed to attain a handle on the sequencing challenge, in-turn increase the cost of sequencing the genome. We propose a novel nanopore device concept that is able to sequence the genome at very high translocation speeds. The novel technology does not require slowing- down of DNA translocation through nanopore but is inherently able to transduce base-sequence information at speeds of above 100,000 bases per second. Further the platform technology enables low cost of device manufacturing, potentially offering a high-speed very-low cost solution to sequencing. We propose the novel device concept, methods of fabrication, and exploratory studies towards realizing high speed DNA information readout. We further propose device physical modeling and numerical simulations from first principles to aid rational-design and to validate the proposed solution for $1000 genome.

Public Health Relevance

We propose a revolutionary nanopore technology for high-speed, high-quality genome sequencing that is also very inexpensive. In first of a kind approach, rather than slowing-down DNA speed, proposed technology is capable of reading the base sequence at very high speeds. This results in quick and cheap genome sequencing, and has potential to revolutionize diagnostics, therapeutics, genomics, forensics, food production, among others.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI)
Type
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Project #
1R21HG006314-01
Application #
8183202
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZHG1-HGR-N (M2))
Program Officer
Schloss, Jeffery
Project Start
2011-08-15
Project End
2014-07-31
Budget Start
2011-08-15
Budget End
2012-07-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2011
Total Cost
$322,400
Indirect Cost
Name
Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
Department
Miscellaneous
Type
Organized Research Units
DUNS #
943360412
City
Tempe
State
AZ
Country
United States
Zip Code
85287