Programmable DNA barcode-encoded exponential amplification reaction for the multiplex detection of miRNAs

Anal Methods. 2024 Mar 14;16(11):1649-1658. doi: 10.1039/d3ay02215c.

Abstract

Multiple analysis of miRNAs is essential for the early diagnosis and monitoring of diseases. Here, a programmable, multiplex, and sensitive approach was developed for one-pot detection of miRNAs by melting temperature encoded sequences and exponential isothermal amplification (E-EXPAR). In the presence of target miRNAs, the corresponding templates initiate the cycles of nicking and polymerization/displacement, generating numerous barcode strands with unique encoding sequences. Subsequently, generated barcode strands hybridize with fluorescent probes and quench the fluorophore by a triplet of G base through a photo-induced electron transfer mechanism. Finally, a melting curve analysis is performed to quantify miRNAs by calculating the rate of fluorescence change at the corresponding melting temperature. Based on this, miRNA-21, miRNA-9, and miRNA-122 were detected with the detection limits of 3.3 fM, 2.9 fM, and 1.7 fM, respectively. This E-EXPAR was also employed to simultaneously detect three miRNAs in biological samples, showing consistent results with RT-qPCR. Overall, this study provides a programmable and universal platform for multiplex analysis of miRNAs, and holds great promise as an alternative to the multiplex analysis in clinical diagnostics and prognostics for nucleic acid detection.

MeSH terms

  • DNA Barcoding, Taxonomic*
  • MicroRNAs* / analysis
  • MicroRNAs* / genetics
  • Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques / methods
  • Temperature

Substances

  • MicroRNAs