Universal workflow for food pathogen detection using ddpcr
A universal, scalable workflow for extracting ddPCR-grade DNA/RNA from diverse food matrices, adapting wastewater nucleic acid extraction techniques. Ensures consistent recovery and accurate quantification for food safety testing, compatible with automation.
Overview
This solution offers a universal preparatory workflow for detecting foodborne pathogens using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). By adapting a successful nucleic acid extraction process from wastewater applications, this workflow addresses the challenges of extracting ddPCR-ready DNA and RNA from complex food matrices such as meat, dairy, and produce. The process is designed to be scalable, automation-ready, and cost-effective, ensuring consistent recovery and accurate quantification of low-abundance nucleic acids for food safety testing.
Technical specifications
The workflow integrates several key steps: filtration, chemical lysis, magnetic-bead based purification, and inhibitor-reduction. This allows for the effective recovery of ddPCR-ready eluates from samples up to 300 mL in volume within a standard laboratory shift. It is designed to handle various sample types without the need for re-optimization. The method's efficacy will be validated through a series of phases, including benchmarking, optimization, and comparison with existing food-pathogen extraction kits. The technology is compatible with standard commercial ddPCR instruments and has potential for automation with widely used droplet-generation and automation systems.
Technology readiness level
The development is currently at Technology Readiness Level 6, indicating that the solution has been demonstrated in a relevant environment. Future validation plans include benchmarking across model matrices, optimization of process parameters, and scaling for automation and integration into food safety laboratories.
About The University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma is a flagship public research university spanning Norman, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa, combining comprehensive academics with a major health sciences center. Industry collaborates through a research and technology campus in Norman that co‑locates university facilities with federal partners, and through the OU Health Sciences Center, which connects clinicians, core labs, and clinical trials within the OU Health system. Dedicated corporate engagement and contracting teams streamline sponsored research, while a centralized technology commercialization office supports IP, licensing, and startup formation. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD.
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