The Economic Times

In 2000, University Of Illinois researchers searched 1,000 trillion DNA molecules for lead-sensitive DNA. 9 years later, their lab reported DNA sensors with sensitivity as low as 11 parts per trillion for toxic metals in drinking water

Lead detection may soon look very different from a trip to the laboratory. Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a DNA lead sensor that can recognize dangerous lead ions through a fluorescent signal. The approach uses a tiny strand of catalytic DNA to identify lead with high selectivity. That could make real-time, on-site lead detection simpler, cheaper and more practical for environmental monitoring, water testing and public health.