Microfluidic device for point-of-care pathogen detection in food
Innovative microfluidic device offering point-of-care pathogen detection in food samples with high selectivity and sensitivity. Utilizes specific probes and fluorescence detection via smartphones, providing a robust, cost-effective, and user-friendly solution.
Overview
The microfluidic device developed by South Dakota State University proposes a groundbreaking solution for pathogen detection in food samples. This point-of-care (POC) device is designed to offer greater selectivity and sensitivity compared to traditional molecular assays. It provides a robust, cost-effective, and easy-to-use method for detecting various pathogens by utilizing specific probes against targeted sequences. This innovation significantly addresses the challenges of expensive, time-consuming, and less sensitive traditional methods, offering a practical tool for enhancing food safety.
Technical specifications
- Microfluidic Device: Incorporates a channel for DNA extraction using lysozyme enzyme.
- Probe Design: Specific probes are designed to target particular pathogen sequences, labeled with fluorescent dye.
- Fluorescence Detection: Upon hybridization, fluorescence is emitted and detected using a smartphone.
- Ease of Use: The device is user-friendly, enabling on-the-spot pathogen detection without the need for extensive laboratory infrastructure.
Technology readiness level
This technology is at Technology Readiness Level 9, indicating that it has been proven in an operational environment and is ready for commercial deployment. The device's development and validation processes have been thoroughly completed, ensuring its reliability and effectiveness in real-world applications.
About South Dakota State University
South Dakota State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university serving a large statewide community. Industry engages through a university‑linked research and technology park that colocates tenant companies with faculty labs and pilot‑scale processing suites for de‑risking and demonstration. A statewide extension network and field sites provide real‑world environments for validation and market feedback, while shared‑use core facilities and tailored workforce pipelines connect talent and tools to corporate R&D. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from USDA and NSF, with additional awards from NIH and DOE, alongside state and industry partnerships. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP and industry agreements, and incubator space at the research park supports startup formation and scale‑up.
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