Biosensores y bioelectrónica

Genetic Gatekeepers: Biosensors Revolutionizing DNA Sequencing

Abstract

Cameron Harper

Biosensors have emerged as revolutionary tools in the field of gene sequencing, offering unparalleled capabilities in terms of speed, accuracy, and efficiency. Gene sequencing, the process of determining the precise order of nucleotides within a gene or an entire genome, is fundamental to understanding genetic variation, hereditary diseases, and evolutionary relationships. Biosensors, with their ability to integrate biological recognition elements with transducing platforms, have transformed the way we analyze genetic information, paving the way for breakthroughs in genomics and personalized medicine.

At the heart of biosensors lies the synergy between biological recognition elements and transducers, which convert biochemical signals into measurable outputs. In gene sequencing applications, these recognition elements typically comprise nucleic acid probes, such as DNA or RNA sequences, designed to selectively bind to target DNA molecules with high specificity. Coupled with transducers such as optical, electrochemical, or nanopore-based systems, biosensors enable the rapid and accurate detection of DNA sequences, facilitating real-time monitoring of genetic information with unprecedented precision.

One of the most significant advantages of biosensors in gene sequencing is their ability to achieve high-throughput analysis of DNA samples. Traditional sequencing methods, such as Sanger sequencing, were labour-intensive and time-consuming, limiting their scalability and applicability to large-scale genomic studies. Biosensors address these challenges by enabling parallel processing of multiple DNA samples in a single assay, thereby accelerating the sequencing process and reducing the cost per base pair. This high-throughput capability has revolutionized the field of genomics, enabling researchers to sequence entire genomes with unprecedented speed and efficiency.