Optimizing DNA Yield in Self-Collected Samples Through Advanced Materials

As non-invasive and self-collected sampling expands across diagnostics and clinical research, ensuring consistent DNA yield and purity has become a critical performance factor in molecular workflows. While analytical methods often receive significant attention, upstream sample collection decisions can strongly influence biomolecule recovery, inhibitor carryover, transport stability and overall assay reliability.

In self-collection settings, biological variability, incomplete release of captured material and residual inhibitors can contribute to variability in DNA yield when compared to clinician-collected reference samples. Addressing these challenges requires careful consideration of collection material properties, including uptake efficiency, controlled release and inhibitor retention.

In this webinar, the featured speakers will examine how material engineering influences DNA yield and purity in vaginal self-collection for HPV testing, drawing on pilot study data comparing self-collected and clinician-collected samples. They will also explore how these same material principles apply to saliva-based diagnostics, including exosome enrichment and RNA preservation, demonstrating how engineered porous materials can help optimize biomolecule recovery across sample matrices. Attendees will gain insight into how upstream material design supports reliable downstream molecular analysis.

Register for this webinar to learn how material innovation can improve DNA recovery in human samples and support the development of robust non-invasive sampling devices.

Speakers

Paul Slowey, PhD, CEO and Founder, Oasis Diagnostics®

Paul Slowey, PhD, is the CEO and Founder of Oasis Diagnostics, a company focused on developing innovative non-invasive sample collection technologies for reliable biomolecule isolation. He holds a PhD in Organic Chemistry and has extensive experience in the development of collection systems for saliva and vaginal self-sampling applications. Dr. Slowey has led the design and commercialization of multiple sample-collection devices that support downstream molecular workflows, including DNA, RNA, protein, exosome and circulating cell-free DNA / RNA analysis. His work emphasizes the role of materials and device design in improving sample quality, stability and compatibility with analytical testing. Dr. Slowey has authored and co-authored one book and eight book chapters on salivary diagnostics as well as numerous peer-reviewed publications and works closely with academic and industry partners to advance decentralized and non-invasive sampling solutions.

Message Presenter

Ellen Weinzapfel, PhD, Global Marketing Manager, Porex

Ellen Weinzapfel, PhD, is the Global Marketing Manager at Porex, where she supports diagnostic and medtech customers developing advanced sample collection and biomolecule isolation solutions. She works closely with R&D, product development and commercial teams to translate material science capabilities into application-specific solutions for non-invasive sampling and decentralized diagnostics.

Message Presenter