image: Illustrative image of the nanogap sequencer developed in this study (Design application pending)
Credit: H.U. Group Research Institute G.K.
Osaka, Japan – Biomolecular sequencers are devices for deciphering genetic information and are essential advanced equipment for gene-based cancer diagnosis and treatment. Previously, a research team at Osaka University demonstrated that biomolecular sequencers can be used to determine the base sequences of DNA and RNA and the amino acid sequences of peptides. This time, the team collaborated with the industry to successfully developed a prototype device of the first made-in-Japan biomolecular sequence.
The verification of the principle of the biomolecule sequencer had been carried out by this research team over a period of more than 16 years; however, the development of a measurement chip and measurement device has proven to be a significant hurdle to its practical application.
The research team headed by Professor Masateru Taniguchi and Dr. Takahito Ohshiro worked jointly with H.U. Group Research Institute G.K., a wholly-owned subsidiary of H.U. Group Holdings, Inc., which includes Japan's largest provider of clinical laboratory testing services (SRL Inc.) and in vitro diagnostics (Fujirebio Inc.), to review and evaluate the materials, fabrication processes, and functions of the measurement chip and measurement device from a practical application perspective. Based on the results obtained in this study, a new design was developed and with the strong support of Sony Global Manufacturing & Operations Corporation, a prototype biomolecule sequencer was successfully developed.
The team will continue to develop AI optimized for biomolecular sequencers for fast and accurate gene-based diagnostics while working to create a ‘peptide sequencer,’ a globally contested area of research, to realize a powerful tool in peptide drug discovery.
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About Osaka University
Osaka University was founded in 1931 as one of the seven imperial universities of Japan and is now one of Japan's leading comprehensive universities with a broad disciplinary spectrum. This strength is coupled with a singular drive for innovation that extends throughout the scientific process, from fundamental research to the creation of applied technology with positive economic impacts. Its commitment to innovation has been recognized in Japan and around the world. Now, Osaka University is leveraging its role as a Designated National University Corporation selected by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology to contribute to innovation for human welfare, sustainable development of society, and social transformation.
Website: https://resou.osaka-u.ac.jp/en