IoT PCR: Low Cost DNA Replication Connected to the Internet.

What is a PCR thermocycler?

A PCR Thermocycler is a device that can change between desired temperatures in a controllable manner in order to properly carry out a Polymerase Chain Reaction(PCR). 

What is a PCR?

A polymerase chain reaction is a type of reaction used to replicate certain parts of DNA. The process of replicating DNA comprises of many steps. Here is a simplified version:

Step 1.) DNA is heated up to 95 C in order to denature the DNA. When heated, the hydrogen bond between the base pairs start breaking off, separating the helices in the DNA, which yields 2 complementary strands of DNA.

Step 2.)The sample is then lowered to 55 C for 20-40 seconds to allow the primers(small strands of DNA that serve as starting points for the polymerase) to bond to the DNA.

Step 3.) The sample is then raised to the optimum temperature of the polymerase used(typically Taq polymerase), which then allows the polymerase to bind to the primer and begin completing the DNA strand by adding nucleotides.

Step 4.) Repeat process

This can be continued indefinitely, given that you have enough polymerase, primers, and nucleotides. Each time the cycle is repeated, the amount of DNA doubles.

What will I make that is different than that of commercial PCR Thermocyclers?

Lab-Grade and commercial PCR thermocyclers cost tens thousands of dollars, and are designed to hold hundreds of samples. They are hard to use, and you need extensive knowledge of the polymerase you are using in order to carry out a successful reaction. I am aiming for a Low-Cost, easy to use thermocycler that can be used by high school students with very little knowledge on the subject. This is good for personal use and for education. Not only that, since we can control it through the internet, I will develop an app that will control the thermocycler, and develop a set of presets for the user, making it easier for him or her to operate the device.

What is PCR useful for?

Once amplified, the DNA produced by PCR can be used in many different laboratory procedures. For example, most mapping techniques in the Human Genome Project (HGP) relied on PCR. PCR is also valuable in a number of laboratory and clinical techniques, including DNA fingerprinting, detection of bacteria or viruses (particularly AIDS), and diagnosis of genetic disorders. Long story short, PCR is useful for almost anything that involves DNA/RNA.

My Build

I used an Arduino MKR1000 connected to a relay and the heating/cooling devices. 

Circuit/Schematic

Note: change the Digital Output wire from DIGITAL 12 to DIGITAL 6.

Software

Using the Remote Arduino APIs, I developed a windows universal app that receives input from the user, connects to the devices, and controls the device remotely. You can connect to the device via WiFi or USB. The program in the Arduino can be Firmata or standard-firmata-wifi.

How to use?

To use the PCR, you have to prepare a DNA sample first. Watch the video series and it will walk you through the basic process.

What I plan on adding later on

I will probably also add an LCD Display, clean up the UI, add LED indicators, manual controls, fix up some issues with the app, and make a shield or a PCB for the Arduino.