Ultra-sensitive biosensor with automated bioconcentration for salmonella detection
Revolutionary biosensor integrating novel filtration, enrichment, and SERS-enhanced detection for rapid, sensitive Salmonella identification in chocolate, achieving 1 CFU/375g detection in 6-8 hours.
Overview
The ultra-sensitive biosensor with automated bioconcentration is a groundbreaking solution designed for the rapid detection of Salmonella in challenging matrices such as chocolate and cocoa. By integrating a selective extraction and enrichment process with a modified tangential ultrafiltration step, this biosensor achieves highly sensitive detection without extending assay times. The inclusion of Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS)-active nanomaterials and molecular biology-based bioreceptors enhances sensitivity by 100-fold, enabling reliable and cost-effective testing while minimizing reagent use.
Technical specifications
- Selective Extraction and Enrichment: Promotes Salmonella growth in low moisture, high-fat environments like chocolate, ensuring detectable levels.
- Modified Tangential Ultrafiltration: Concentrates samples and performs buffer exchanges to eliminate interferents, setting optimal conditions for detection.
- SERS-Active Nanomaterials: Integrated into the lateral flow biosensor, these materials dramatically boost sensitivity and reliability.
- Molecular Biology-Based Bioreceptors: Engineered for specificity to Salmonella membrane elements, reducing false positives.
- Automated Process: Fully automated bioconcentrator enhances user convenience and operational efficiency.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 4, this technology has been validated in a lab environment. Future validation activities include antibody production and SERS-material optimization, integration of devices, and lab-scale validation of the entire system. These steps are expected to advance the technology towards commercialization, with validation and data processing capabilities planned, such as results transmission to mobile and cloud platforms.
About ITENE
ITENE is an independent technology research center based in Paterna (Valencia, Spain), focused on industry‑collaborative R&D and services across the packaging, transport, logistics, and mobility value chain. Companies engage through contract R&D, consultancy, testing, and training supported by co‑located laboratories and pilot plants that advance ideas from evaluation to pilot‑scale validation. Its facilities are embedded in the Valencia Technology Park, enabling day‑to‑day interaction with a regional innovation ecosystem and convenient access for partners. Activities are supported by competitive regional and national programs in Spain and by European Union framework funding such as Horizon.
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