| DNA Logic Circuits for miRNA Detection: A Comprehensive Review |
| Paper ID : 1050-ICEEM2025 (R1) |
| Authors |
|
Sara S Soliman *1, Fathi E. Abd El-Samie1, Wael Badawy2, Saied M. Abd El-Atty1 1Faculty of Electronic Engineering - Menouf - Menoufia 2School of Artificial Intelligence, Egyptian Russian University, Cairo, Egypt |
| Abstract |
| This review paper explores the application of DNA logic circuits (LCs) as innovative platforms for microRNA (miRNA) detection, crucial for early cancer diagnosis. miRNAs are stable, heterogony expression patterns, and are readily detectable in various bodily fluids, making them excellent targets for non-invasive testing. Conventional detection methodologies such as quantitative PCR, microarrays, and next-generation sequencing offer high sensitivity but are often hampered by complexity, high costs, and the requirement for specialized laboratory equipment, limiting their utility in point-of-care and resource-limited settings. DNA LCs leverage programmable strand displacement and DNA computing to enable intelligent, multiplexed sensing. This review paper highlights recent advances in logic-driven DNA computing for miRNA detection, categorized by amplification strategies: enzyme-free, enzyme-mediated, and nanostructured or nanomaterial assisted systems, highlighting their strengths and limitations. Despite significant progress, challenges such as reaction kinetics, intracellular delivery, scalability, and clinical validation remain. Addressing these hurdles is vital for translating DNA LCs-based biosensors into practical tools for early cancer detection and beyond, promising more accessible, rapid, and specific diagnostic approaches. |
| Keywords |
| Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), DNA Logic Circuits (DNA LCs), MicroRNAs (miRNA), Detection, Toehold Mediated Strand displacement (TMSD), Biomarkers, DNA computing. |
| Status: Accepted |