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New Generation Of Simpler Sensors For Detecting Disease-causing Microbes And Toxins

Date:
July 27, 2008
Source:
American Chemical Society
Summary:
Scientists in Singapore are reporting development of a complete, palm-sized sensor that can detect disease-causing microbes, toxins, and other biological threats instantly without the need for an external power source or a computer.
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Scientists in Singapore are reporting development of a complete, palm-sized sensor that can detect disease-causing microbes, toxins, and other biological threats instantly without the need for an external power source or a computer.

The long-awaited device, ideal for remote medical clinics, battlefields, and other sites, represents the next-generation of faster, simpler biosensors, according to a new study.

In the new study, Pavel Neuzil and Julien Reboud explain that the new device uses an existing method for detecting DNA, proteins or cells based on their interaction with light shown on the nanostructured surface when these materials come into contact with it. Most existing biosensors of this type require the use of an external power source, a complex and costly analyzer and rely on an external personal computer to report the results.

Their self-contained analyzer relies on simpler components, such as four light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that light up in specific patters to produce test results without a computer, the researchers say.


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Materials provided by American Chemical Society. Note: Content may be edited for style and length.


Journal Reference:

  1. Neuzil et al. Palm-Sized Biodetection System Based on Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance. Analytical Chemistry, 2008; 0 (0): 0 DOI: 10.1021/ac800335q

Cite This Page:

American Chemical Society. "New Generation Of Simpler Sensors For Detecting Disease-causing Microbes And Toxins." ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 27 July 2008. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080721093845.htm>.
American Chemical Society. (2008, July 27). New Generation Of Simpler Sensors For Detecting Disease-causing Microbes And Toxins. ScienceDaily. Retrieved October 13, 2024 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080721093845.htm
American Chemical Society. "New Generation Of Simpler Sensors For Detecting Disease-causing Microbes And Toxins." ScienceDaily. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080721093845.htm (accessed October 13, 2024).

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