Using a PCR‐Based Method To Analyze and Model Large, Heterogeneous Populations of DNA

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Abstract

The study of populations of large size and high diversity is limited by the capability of collecting data. Moreover, for a pool of individuals, each associated with a unique characteristic feature, as the pool size grows, the possible interactions increase exponentially and quickly go beyond the limit of computation and experimental studies. Herein, the design of DNA libraries with various diversity is reported. By using a facile analytical method based on real-time PCR, the diversity of a pool of DNA can be evaluated to allow extraordinarily high heterogenicity (e.g., >1 trillion). It is demonstrated that these DNA libraries can be used to model heterogeneous populations; these libraries exhibit functions such as self-protection, suitability for biased expansion, and the possibility to evolve into amorphous structures. The method has shown the remarkable power of parallel computing with DNA, since it can resemble an analogue computer and be applied in selection-based biotechnology methods, such as DNA-encoded chemical libraries. As a chemical approach to solve problems traditionally for genetic and statistical analysis, the method provides a quick and cost-efficient evaluation of library diversity for intermediate steps through a selection process.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1144 - 1149
JournalChemBioChem
Volume21
Issue number8
Publication statusPublished - 17 Apr 2020
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 85077909141

Keywords