The portable detector ImmunoSMART was combined with the cyclone air sampler to detect the model bioagent E. coli DH5a in bioaerosols. The selected capture antibody was immobilized on gold electrodes, antibody-peroxidase conjugate served as a tracer. In buffer, the amperometric immunosensor measured 10 3 to 10 8 CFU/mL within 30 min. Detection in air was realized in a closed aerosol chamber. Automated dissemination of the cells, sampling and measurement allowed remote testing of the cyclone/immunodetector. The level of 150 CFU/L in air was clearly indicated (20 min analysis including 5 min sampling) and independently confirmed using the slit sampler and agar cultivation. The results seem promising for further extended tests in both aerosol chamber and field trial conditions.
Easy and inexpensive manufacturing of biological weapons, their complicated detection, expensive protection, difficult treating of affected individuals, selective impact only for people, animals or plants, are all factors making an effective defense against biological warfare agents very difficult. The aim of this study is an introduction to the systems for the detection and identification of biological aerosols containing dangerous bioagents. The basic techniques used for detection and identification of bioagents are described, including physical, molecular, immunochemical, and other ligand assays. Measuring systems and equipment for the individual techniques are summarised.
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