LAMP lateral flow biosensor enables rapid, equipment-light screening for Southeast Asian α-thalassemia deletions
Investigators developed a one-step loop-mediated isothermal amplification combined with a lateral flow dipstick (LAMP-LFD) assay to detect the Southeast Asian α0-thalassemia deletion. In a cohort of 96 Thai subjects, the biosensor achieved 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity, with a limit of detection at 200 pg and visual results in 5 to 10 minutes. The method showed no cross-reactivity with other common α-thalassemia variants. For laboratories in endemic regions, this platform offers a simple, low-infrastructure alternative for genetic carrier screening, supporting population-level thalassemia prevention and genetic counseling programs.
The original study
Development of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) combined with a lateral flow dipstick DNA biosensor for detection of α thalassemia 1 [Southeast Asia (SEA), --SEA deletion].
- Authors
- Ckumdee J, Karnjanaopas S, Songdej D, Tungbuppha N, Kaewphinit T, Wongsuk T, et al.
- Journal
- PloS one
- Type
- Journal Article
- PMID
- 42862843
Original abstract
This study aimed to develop a one-step loop-mediated isothermal amplification combined with a lateral flow dipstick (LAMP-LFD) DNA biosensor for the detection of α0-thalassemia (SEA deletion). Genomic DNA was obtained from 48 α0-thalassemia (SEA deletion)-positive and 48 (SEA deletion)-negative (normal) Thai subjects. DNA was analyzed by LAMP assay at 61°C for 60 min using specific primers for the α0-thalassemia (SEA deletion) type. Following amplification, the products were visually detected using an LFD, with results available within 5-10 min. The one-step LAMP-LFD DNA biosensor could detect DNA carrying the α0-thalassemia (SEA deletion) type at levels as low as 200 pg, with 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Furthermore, no cross-reactivity was observed with DNA carrying other α0-thalassemia deletion types (THAI deletion). The LAMP-LFD DNA biosensor is useful for identifying carriers of α0-thalassemia (SEA deletion) (the most common deletion type found in Thailand and across Southeast Asia). This novel one-step LAMP-LFD kit will be beneficial for medical laboratory technologists performing genetic carrier screening tests as it is simple to perform and requires minimal equipment and time. Furthermore, this method supports clinicians in providing genetic counseling and implementing preventive strategies against severe thalassemia, a significant public health concern in Thailand.