Immunoelectrochemical/ Optical Biosensor with a Capillary Bioseparator/ Bioreactor for Rapid Detection of Pathogens in Poultry and Meat Products

Three phases will be followed to approach the goal: <ol> <li>Design and fabricate a capillary immuno-separator/ bioreactor for bacterial separation and enzymatic amplification;
<li>Develop a flow-injection biosensor system based on the immuno-separator/ bioreactor and electrochemical/ optical transducers; and
<li>Evaluate the biosensor system using processed raw and cooked poultry and meat products.</ol>
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In Phase I, to be funded first, an immuno-separator/ bioreactor will be designed and constructed using a capillary column with immobilized antibodies. A layer of active membrane will be coated on the inner wall of the capillary for bonding of antibodies. By injecting samples and then enzyme-labeled antibodies, antibody-pathogen-enzyme labeled antibody conjugates will be formed in the capillary. Substrates will be injected to generate the signals required for electrochemical/ optical measurements. The conditions of antibody immobilization, bacterial separation, enzymatic reaction and amplification will be optimized to maximize the capture efficacy and biological signals and minimize noises. Major pathogens found in raw and cooked poultry and meat products, including Salmonella typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli and Campylobacter jejuni, will be tested.
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This proposed research will provide the poultry and meat industry with new technology for rapid detection of pathogens on site or on line. This will help the industry enhance HACCP programs, minimize product recalls and clear international trade barriers due to microbial contamination. Consequently, this will help the whole society ensure food safety, and reduce foodborne diseases and related medical cost.