Reference no: EM133324509

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is gaining popularity over polymerase chain reaction (PCR) since it requires only one temperature and is faster than PCR. The progression of LAMP is often monitored by adding a colorimetric dye (typically a pH indicator dye) to the LAMP reaction mixture. Most LAMP reactions are performed in a small tube using a PCR thermal cycler, setting the temperature constant. Commercial LAMP devices are also available, also using a small tube with a constant-temperature control system. As demonstrated in the laboratory exercise, LAMP can also be performed on a paper microfluidic chip (instead of a small tube). First, a sample and a LAMP reaction mixture are loaded into the inlet of a paper microfluidic channel. It is then placed on a hot plate maintained at a desired temperature (e.g., 68°C). After 30-45 min, the color will be shifted from yellowish-red (red with weak green) to yellow (red + green). While we used a smartphone camera to quantify such color changes, you are tasked to build a low-cost, standalone optical device to monitor the LAMP reaction. You are specifically asked not to use image sensors to lower costs and simplify the device

A) Choose the best light source and light detector, considering their accuracy and costs. Which color Will you choose among RB? Do you need an optical filter(s)? Do you need optical fibers?

B) Color intensities will be converted to absorbance. How can you collect the reference intensity