We want to design a practical test stripe for everyone. But how to, if superfolder GFP is the ideal reporter protein for in vitro protein synthesis (Lentini et al, 2013 )? It is not visible for the naked eye. Therefore we designed a device to detect fluorescence. We researched previous iGEM projects with comparable needs and intentions, e.g. iGEM Aachen 2014. They used a filter in front of a sensor to detect fluorescence. But it did not work sufficiently. Another approach is to put a filter in front of the flash, as described by Hossain et al, 2014 . They analyzed an already taken photo with a smartphone app.

Both approaches use only one filter, while both emission and extinction require different filters. The usage of two filters on a smartphone with seperate camera and flashlight, one Filter for emission and one for extinction, is our new approach. Now we can detect the fluorescence specifically and display it on a photo. Nevertheless, it is still not practicable for the user. So we decided to provide a smartphone app for the analysis of the fluorescence as output signal. You only have to take a photo with two filters attached to your smartphone and the app analyzes it.

Furthermore it is important to take the photo in a dark environment. Therefore we designed a box that was buildt using a 3D printer. You can put your test strip inside the box, place your smartphone on the top of the box and take the photo.

To sum it up: An easy method for fluorescence imaging and analysis was invented.

References