We developed a Raman-compatible chip for isolating microorganisms from complex media. The isolation of bacteria is achieved by using antibodies as capture molecules. Due to the very specific interaction with the targets, this approach is promising for isolation of bacteria even from complex matrices such as body fluids. Our choice of capture molecules also enabled the investigation of samples containing yet unidentified bacteria, as the antibodies can capture a large variety of bacteria based on their analogue cell wall surface structures. The capability of our system is demonstrated for a broad range of different Gram-positive and Gram-negative germs. Subsequent identification is done by recording Raman spectra of the bacteria. Further, it is shown that classification with chemometric methods is possible.
The state-of-the-art monitoring of drinking water hygiene is based on the cultivation and enumeration of indicator bacteria. Despite its proven reliability, this approach has the disadvantages of being (a) relatively slow and (b) limited to a small number of indicator bacteria. Ideally, alternative methods would be less time-consuming while providing information about a larger set of hygienically relevant microorganisms including viruses. In this paper, we present insights into the design of a modular concentration and detection system for bacteria, bacteriophages and viruses. Following further validation, this or similar techniques have the potential to extend and speed up the monitoring of raw and drinking water hygiene in the future. The system consists of different modules for the concentration of microorganisms, an amplification and detection unit that includes a module for the differentiation between live and dead microorganisms, and an automated system for decision support and self-diagnosis. The ongoing testing under controlled laboratory conditions and real-life conditions in the water supply industry yields further system improvements. Moreover, the increased sensitivity and broader range of microbiological parameters emphasize the need for a reconsideration of the currently used criteria for the assessment of (drinking) water hygiene
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.