RNA-cleaving Fluorescent DNAzymes (RFDs)
Delivered
Mar 14, 2024
Aug 10, 2026
Problem: The detection and analysis of specific biological targets, such as bacteria, are critical in various fields, including medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring. Traditional methods of target detection can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and require complex equipment, making them less accessible for rapid and on-site testing.
Solution: Saiwa has collaborated with McMaster University to develop a novel approach using RNA-cleaving Fluorescent DNAzymes (RFDs). These are specialized DNA sequences that respond to the presence of a target by inducing a cleavage reaction in a substrate strand. Our team has utilized this technology to create printed microarrays that segment and measure regions of interest (the dots on the microarray) against the background in RFD images. This method allows for the precise detection of specific targets through visual analysis of around 100 RFD images provided by Didar Lab at McMaster University.
Outcome: The project has successfully streamlined the process of target detection. The printed microarrays offer a quick, efficient, and accurate method for identifying specific biological entities. This advancement has significant implications for improving the speed and accuracy of diagnostics and environmental assessments, thereby enhancing the ability to respond to biological threats and monitor health conditions more effectively.
Related Projects
Discover how Saiwa Inc. leveraged cutting-edge AI and deep learning to detect surface defects on both white and black paper with high precision. This project revolutionized quality control for a leading paper manufacturer—improving accuracy, reducing waste, and enabling real-time defect insights.
We at Saiwa Inc. are pleased to announce that we have successfully completed an aluminium surface defect detection project in collaboration with AI-innovate Company for CastTechnology in Canada.
In this project, using machine learning techniques and the networks we provide in our Anomaly Detection service, we detect and localize the location of micro and macro defects on a casting line, including: crack, frost, frost patch, longitude frost and mold oscillation. This service is delivered via a simple user interface where users can run the defect detection APIs.
Ordered by
Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC)Multispectral Submersion Classification of Water Soldier in Drone Imagery
Jan 2026
In 2026, Saiwa continues its collaboration with Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) to further enhance drone-based monitoring of invasive aquatic vegetation. Building on last year’s high-accuracy RGB-based Water Soldier detection pipeline, this new phase focuses specifically on determining whether each detected plant is located above or below the water surface.
Collaboration with
Paramoria Agri-Science IncMolecular and Machine Learning-Based Monitoring of Fusarium Dry Rot in Potatoes
Jul 2025
The project introduces a groundbreaking solution to combat Fusarium dry rot, a major issue for potato producers in Alberta, causing millions in annual losses. The solution combines two advanced technologies: eDNA monitoring to track Fusarium spore populations and AI-powered wounding detection to identify mechanical damage during harvest. With industry partnerships, the project aims to develop species-specific Fusarium detection kits, integrate real-time monitoring, and reduce storage waste. By providing predictive insights, the project seeks to improve storage yield retention and offer proactive disease management tools to producers.
We at Saiwa Inc. are thrilled to announce the successful completion of an innovative project focused on the measurement of interpupillary distance (IPD) and pupil height. This groundbreaking solution was developed in collaboration with Innovation Venture Farm to address the growing need for precision in optical device fitting and design.
By leveraging cutting-edge AI techniques and the Mediapipe framework, our solution detects and calculates critical parameters such as the center of the pupil and the lowest point of glasses lenses. These measurements are crucial for applications in eyeglasses, VR/AR headsets, and other optical technologies. The results are delivered with unmatched accuracy and efficiency, empowering manufacturers to deliver tailored products to their users.
This project also integrates Saiwa’s Annotation Services, which ensure data labeling precision and scalability, making it easier for users to achieve reliable outcomes.
Collaboration with
A U.S. County Weed Management DivisionAutomatic Purple Loosestrife Detection with AI-Powered Semantic Segmentation
Feb 2026→Feb 2026
Discover how Saiwa partnered with a U.S. County Weed Division to build a custom computer vision model that automatically detects and maps Purple Loosestrife infestations from high-resolution aerial imagery, deployed as an operational service on Sairone.