Nanoscale sensor detects bacteria in minutes
Today, the diagnosis of bacterial infections requires growing cultures in a laboratory over a period of days. But new sensors based on various nanomaterials that are being developed for ultrasensitive, rapid DNA detection. Instruments based on the new technology would take from 15 minutes to two hours for a diagnosis.
Benjamin Miller, professor of dermatology and biomedical engineering at the University of Rochester Medical Center, has patented a sensor that is based on a hairpin-shaped strand of DNA, and is complementary to the genetic sequence being targeted. The DNA unfolds when it captures the target gene sequence, causing an attached fluorescent molecule to glow with an indication of “positive” results.
New York based Lighthouse Biosciences is commercializing disposable cartridges to be used with the nanosensor technology.
