Rapid DNA hybridization reactions using isotachophoresis

We use ITP to control and increase the rate of homogenous DNA hybridization reactions. We present a novel physical model, new validation experiments, and new demonstrations of this assay. We studied the coupled physics and chemistry of the dynamics of preconcentration, mixing, and chemical reaction kinetics under ITP. Our experimentally-validated model enables closed form solution for two-species hybridization reaction under ITP, and predicts 10,000 fold speed-up of chemical reaction rate at concentrations of order 10 pM, with greater enhancement of reaction rate at lower concentrations. We experimentally demonstrate 800 fold speed-up using ITP compared to the standard case of reaction in a simple, well mixed reaction chamber.