Rapid Detection of Superbugs Using DNA Nanosensor
Superbugs, or bacteria that are resistant to almost all antibiotics, pose a threat to our lives and society. If these infection-causing pathogens can be reliably detected it may help in management and treatment. Ace Therapeutics is committed to the goal of rapid detection of superbugs. We offer development services for DNA nanosensors that can reliably detect target superbugs and unknown pathogens.
DNA-Based Nanosensors in Bacterial Detection
DNA-based nanosensors generally use DNA as a recognition probe. For known superbugs, specific DNA sequences can be developed as recognition elements to specifically detect pathogens in the sample. AuNP-based DNA nanosensors are most commonly used for microbial detection. There have been advances in DNA/RNA biosensors. We can create DNA/RNA signatures to precisely diagnose and identify specific bacteria.
Fig. 1 Schematic diagram of pathogen detection based on AuNP-DNA couples. (Kumar, V and Guleria, P, 2020)
Identification based on oligonucleotide probes is usually based on the need for PCR amplification steps, which are often time consuming. There are many studies dedicated to simplify the preparation of sensors for rapid, accurate detection. Examples include magnetic bead purification, diffusion methods instead of amplification or cell culture. Together with nanotechnology, they offer tremendous advantages over traditional methods in developing tools for immediate diagnosis with easy-to-read results.
Detection Services of Superbugs by DNA Nanosensor
In search of a simpler, more reliable detection tool, our researchers are ready to leverage our technology platform and expertise to provide researchers with the ability to develop highly sensitive DNA nanosensors, which can accurately detect deadly superbugs such as CRE, MRSA and others.
Design, synthesis and characterization of DNA probes
First, we can design and prepare short DNA sequences, i.e., detection probes. They can identify different target sequences in the DNA of specific bacteria. The superbugs we target can include, CRE, MRSA, multidrug-resistant acinetobacter, neisseria gonorrhoeae, clostridium difficile, etc.
Construction of nanosensors
We can select the right nanomaterial for your detection needs by binding the DNA sequence of the target bacteria and converting that information into a signal that can be read or analyzed. The results can be visualized by using fluorescence, electrochemical signals, and other indications.
Evaluation of DNA nanosensors
We can check the presence of target bacterial DNA by PCR and set up a control group without DNA or a control group of other strains and experimental groups. Test the specificity and dose-dependence of the DNA sensor and finally assess if it matches your detection needs.
Service Options
Different nanoparticles, different strains of bacteria can be selected to develop different nanobiosensors. You can read our service options before selecting and telling us your specific customization.
| Items | Options |
|---|---|
| Sensor Types | Optical (colorimetric, fluorescence, SERS, SPR, etc.), electrochemical (electrochemiluminescence, current signal), mechanical (mechanical sensing), others. |
| Nanoparticle Types | Metal nanoparticles, fluorescent nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles, carbon-based nanomaterials, others. |
| Bacteria Types | K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa, E. faecalis, S. aureus, A. baumannii, S. marcescens, Salmonella enteritidis, MRSA, CRE, VRE, others. |
Ace Therapeutics is a biotechnology company, specializing in superbug research. Please feel free to contact us for help with anything from bacterial diagnosis to drug development, and we will make sure your company or research facility's project goes smoothly.
References
- Kumar, V and Guleria, P. Application of DNA-Nanosensor for Environmental Monitoring: Recent Advances and Perspectives. Curr Pollution Rep, 2020.
- Wang J C, et al. Culture-free detection of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus by using self-driving diffusometric DNA nanosensors. Biosensors and Bioelectronics, 2020, 148: 111817.