MOLBIT: automação em análises moleculares

Abstract

The demand for methods to detect pathogens through DNA analysis has been growing in several areas. Currently the application of techniques such as polymerase chain reaction is not restricted to applications in human health, agribusiness presents several demands for this technology. However, the high cost of the commercially available molecular detection systems makes it difficult to insert these techniques into agribusiness. Thus, there is a need to develop alternatives that make DNA analysis technology feasible, mainly through cost reduction. The cost reduction of any process carried out at scale depends on efficient management tools. Analysis of the current scenario indicated that management tools are still scarce for the molecular biology field. In this context, the objective of this project was to develop a software for the management of the molecular analysis laboratory, in order to integrate the input, process and analysis management. For the development of the software we used programming languages and consolidated frameworks, such as Ruby, Python and Ruby on Rails. For the business modeling, the concepts of minimum viable product (MVP) and Business Model Canvas were approached. In this way the MOLBIT R system was developed, a WEB system capable of managing the inputs, sample and routines registration, reactions used and analysis results. All data is operated with the security, availability and redundancy offered by WEB systems. Added to this is the creation of a desktop software tool to aid the process of analyzing the samples and sending the results to the server whenever there is an internet connection. The validation of this prototype occurred in a company focused on agribusiness. By means of this validation it was possible to conclude that the MOLBIT R system offers the market a new management service, applied to the molecular analysis routine, which allows the manager to more accurately visualize the whole process and the decision making process more quickly. Through the application of the system it was possible to reduce costs both in relation to the purchase of material as well as reduction of losses, besides ensuring the traceability of the whole process.