Size Profiling of cfDNA with μLAS for Agnostic Biomarker Identification

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in human blood plasma is a valuable biomarker for various physiological and pathological conditions. Specific genetic and epigenetic alterations associated with diseases can be detected in the blood, offering a non-invasive method for monitoring at-risk patients and assessing therapy efficacy.While high-sensitivity PCR-based technologies have demonstrated proof-of-principle, the low concentration of cfDNA complicates analytical routines, especially when rapid results are needed. Additionally, these technologies often require knowledge of the disease's genetic background, increasing the risk of false-negative diagnostics.We have developed the µLAS technology for high-sensitivity DNA sizing in just 25 minutes. µLAS utilizes electrohydrodynamic separation and concentration of DNA in funnel-like microfluidic channels. Unlike competing assays, µLAS operates effectively in plasma with high salt concentrations, enabling the collection of cfDNA biomarkers with excellent selectivity, independent of prior genetic knowledge.In this talk, we will present the µLAS technology and discuss our findings from clinical applications.