Team:Lambert GA/Model

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Applied Design Hardware Measurement Model Software

JUDGING FORM

Model

A common issue perceived in underfunded labs across the globe is access to technology for biological analysis. The means often utilized for these analyses consists of exorbitant prices and requires transportation of samples to off-site locations to due equipment’s location. This lack of readily access has proven to be a hindrance, even to a number of iGEM Teams. In order to effectively address this issue, we designed a prototype to serve as an alternative for a plate reader and analyze bacterial samples for a low cost.

Chrome-Q

This prototype, coined the “Chrome-Q”, is miniature light chamber that standardized the emission of light on bacterial pellets placed into wells engraved into the base of the dome, with measurements being taken through a phone’s camera at the top of the phone. Additionally, an app has been created to analyze the degradation of color as a progression, and measure the change in intensity and color as a value for the amount of protein degradation that has occurred. The platform is designed to analyze biological data in reference to the HSL (Hue, Saturation, and Luminance/Intensity) model derived from RGB. Through a data curve obtained from various concentrations of cells, we have translated the expression of a certain color’s intensity as a reference point for percent degradation. In order to ensure consistency in the quantity of cells present at the time of measurement, we incorporated a microwell design into the base where cellular pellets can be placed.

PaperFuge

As a continuation of the theme of low-cost technology, we collaborated with the Prakash Lab at Stanford University to obtain the design for the PaperFuge, and utilize its technology to obtain pellets efficiently. Our team slightly modified the design to accommodate our needs, and optimize the necessary conditions for measurement. With the transfer of liquid cultures to PCR Tubes and spinning them through the PaperFuge, a distinct separation of LB media and cell pellets exists, and following aspiration of the media, the pellet can be successfully extracted.

Chrome-Q and PaperFuge Synergy

The pellet is then transferred into the wells present in the Chrome-Q, and analyzed using the desired phone. This overall design incorporates the necessity of quick biological analysis as well as a cost-efficiency to cater to the monetary restrictions experienced around the world. Through this, the Chrome-Q serves as an inexpensive yet accurate substitute for a plate reader while simultaneously being accessible and simple to use.