Colorimetric biosensor using dual-amplification of enzyme-free reaction through universal hybridization chain reaction system

On-site genetic detection needs to develop a sensitive and straightforward biosensor without special equipment, which can detect various genetic biomarkers. Hybridization chain reaction (HCR) amplifying signal isothermally could be considered as a good candidate for on-site detection. Here, we developed a novel genetic biosensor on the basis of enzyme-free dual-amplification of universal hybridization chain reaction (uHCR) and hemin/G-quadruplex horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mimicking DNAzyme. The uHCR is the strategy which enables simple design for multiple target detection by the introduction of target-specific trigger hairpin without changing the whole system according to a target change. Also, HRP-mimicking DNAzyme could produce a sensitive and quantitative colorimetric signal with increased stability with a limit of detection (LOD) of 5.67 nM. The universality of the uHCR biosensor was proven by the detection of four different targets (miR-21, miR-125b, KRAS-Q61K, and BRAF-V600E) for cancer diagnosis. The uHCR biosensor showed specificity that could discriminate single-nucleotide polymorphism. Moreover, the uHCR biosensor could detect targets in the diluted serum sample. Overall, the uHCR biosensor demonstrated the potential for field testing with a simple redesign without complicated steps or special equipment using a universal hairpin system and enzyme-free amplification. This strategy could enable stable and sensitive detection of a variety of targets. Therefore, it could be applied to urgent detection of various pathogens, remote diagnosis, and self-screening of diseases.