By Jamie Martin
Washington University researchers have introduced a groundbreaking biosensor that detects airborne H5N1 bird flu in under five minutes. Developed in the Chakrabarty lab, this device marks a significant advancement in monitoring pathogens that threaten poultry and dairy farms.
The biosensor utilizes electrochemical capacitive technology to achieve rapid and sensitive detection of viral and bacterial particles. This development comes at a crucial time as the H5N1 avian influenza virus has begun transmitting through airborne particles to mammals, raising significant public health concerns.
Professor Rajan Chakrabarty stated, “This biosensor is the first of its kind,” highlighting its efficiency in detecting pathogens compared to the traditional methods that could take over 10 hours. The need for quicker testing methods became imperative as the virus evolved to become airborne, increasing the risk of widespread outbreaks.
The device functions by sampling air from farm vents and analyzing it through a sophisticated biosensor integrated within a unit the size of a desktop printer.
This technology not only identifies the presence of the virus but also measures the concentration of viral particles, providing crucial data for immediate response and mitigation strategies.
Chakrabarty’s team, including senior staff scientist Meng Wu and graduate student Joshin Kumar, optimized the biosensor to detect minute amounts of viral RNA, enhancing its sensitivity and stability. Their innovative use of graphene oxide and Prussian blue nanocrystals on the carbon electrode surface significantly increased the device's efficacy.
The biosensor’s ability to provide real-time data on pathogen levels is essential for managing farm biosecurity effectively. With the potential to expand its application to other pathogens, this device represents a transformative step in agricultural health monitoring and disease prevention strategies.
The research team is now exploring commercialization opportunities to make this crucial technology widely accessible to farmers and public health officials, ensuring rapid response capabilities across the agricultural sector.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-branex
Categories: National