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We read your paper from last year titled “Rapid, Low-Cost Detection of Zika Virus Using
Programmable Biomolecular Components” and we wanted to know, what led you to
use β-galactosidase as a colored readout?
Dr. Pardee: At that time, we hadn’t considered using C2C2 (Cas13a). So, one of the reasons was
because of the enzyme activity. Single molecule of reporter could serve amplification, rather than
just fluorescence. The other (reason) was just for practical use. No need (to use) UV lights,
electronics, camera, and could be done in a simple piece of paper. Tried 10 different enzyme
options with other based reporters.
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What was your motivation to build that detector on your study?
Dr. Pardee: Multiplexing, being able to track multiple reactions at the same time, and the
potential for quantification. These processes are semi-quantitative and so with that information,
you want to be able to read rather than just being plus minus, being able to calibrate your
reactions. You might be not being able to say exactly how much you have but you may be able to
say this is a high titer or a low titer individual. Also, user accessibility, if you can automatize some
of this tests for reading like in pregnancy tests with a digital detector… can make it really easier
to use.
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