Virus-imprinted polymer sensors for rapid TMV viability assessment
A virus-imprinted polymer (VIP) sensor system for rapid differentiation of viable and non-viable Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV) on seeds, producing results in under 90 seconds. It uses a dual electrochemical transducer design for selective detection and incorporates a neural network model to improve classification and quantification accuracy. The approach is intended for integration into compact seed-testing workflows and portable electronics.
Overview
The virus-imprinted polymer (VIP) sensor system provides a method to rapidly assess the viability of Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV) on seeds. Using a dual-sensor configuration, it employs separate electrochemical transducers for viable and non-viable TMV particles. The VIP approach leverages structural differences associated with viable versus non-viable viruses to enable rapid readouts within 90 seconds. The system is intended for integration into seed testing workflows for agricultural and virology applications.
Technical specifications
- Dual sensing elements: Separate transducers imprinted with viable and non-viable TMV particles for selective detection.
- Rapid results: Viability assessments in under 90 seconds using internal seed extracts.
- Enhanced specificity: Differentiation based on differences in virus size and structural integrity.
- Neural network integration: A neural network model improves classification and quantification accuracy.
- Pilot-scale evaluation: Integration with portable electronics for compact seed testing applications.
Technology readiness level
Currently at TRL 3, the VIP sensor system is in early development and testing. Phase 1 focuses on sensor development and validation, optimizing polymer properties for target recognition and performance under environmental variability. Phase 2 plans to integrate the system with portable electronics for pilot-scale industrial evaluation.
About University of Georgia
The University of Georgia is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university serving a large student body across multiple campuses, known for applied scholarship and community partnership. Industry partners access core facilities and pilot‑scale capabilities—including the Food Product Innovation and Commercialization Center—for prototyping, scale‑up, and product validation. A downtown Innovation District and a statewide Cooperative Extension network link campus expertise to companies across Georgia, while proximity to Atlanta’s corporate and logistics hubs lowers barriers to engagement. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, USDA, and DOE. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP services, licensing, startup support, and incubator space to accelerate commercialization.
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