APPLIED DNA SCIENCES, INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: Biological systems rely upon DNA for identity, indeed, for every aspect of innate function

Description

Biological systems rely upon DNA for identity, indeed, for every aspect of innate function. We utilized botanical genomes as primary DNA source and engineered unique biological markers of SC originality, verifiable anywhere in the supply chain. Formulation stabilizes the marks against the challenges of SC manufacturing and the physicochemical environs that SCs experience. The sensitivity of DNA detection requires infinitesimal quantities of DNA to adequately mark SCs; there is no impact upon manufacturing. There are no limits to the number of unique markers that can be designed, or the quantity of DNA manufactured. Association of the DNA mark with reporter groups allows for rapid screening to detect the presence of DNA markers. When suspicions are elevated, forensic DNA analysis from a simple SC swab can prove originality beyond all doubt. Preliminary results from"Red Team Challenges"support our claim that these marks cannot be copied. This study extends our observations obtained while embedding DNA in the epoxyacrylate inks used to mark SC. We will develop a library of>10,000 marks, extending these marks into new ink formulations and commercial methods of marking in large scale. We will extend our early work on non-ink embedment methods. Stability challenges will be extended.