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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
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Real-Time Detection and Capture of Invasive Cell Subpopulations from Co-Cultures
Published on: March 30, 2022
Single-cell pathogen detection with a reverse-phase immunoassay on impedimetric transducers.
Roberto de la Rica1, Antonio Baldi, César Fernández-Sánchez
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, City University of New York-Hunter College, 695 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA. roberto.delarica@gmail.com
Analytical Chemistry
|September 15, 2009
Summary
This study introduces a novel immunoassay for detecting pathogens. The method achieves ultra-low detection limits for infectious disease monitoring, ensuring high sensitivity and specificity.
Area of Science:
- Biosensors and Immunoassays
- Pathogen Detection
- Microbiology
Background:
- Zero-tolerance standards for microorganisms are critical in various industries due to infectious disease risks.
- Accurate detection of extremely low pathogen numbers is essential for public health and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel reverse-phase immunoassay for specific pathogen detection.
- To achieve an ultra-low limit of detection (LOD) for microorganisms.
Main Methods:
- Utilized impedimetric transducers for sensitive detection.
- Employed urease-labeled antibodies to target pathogens.
- Used atomic force microscopy for precise cell quantification and validation.
Main Results:
- Achieved a limit of detection (LOD) of 1 Escherichia coli cell.
- Demonstrated successful detection within 1 hour assay time.
- Confirmed high selectivity, detecting single cells amidst a 10^4 excess of competing microorganisms.
Conclusions:
- The developed reverse-phase immunoassay offers outstanding LOD and selectivity for pathogen detection.
- This method provides a reliable tool for industries requiring stringent microbial monitoring.
- The integration with atomic force microscopy enhances the accuracy of sensor performance assessment.
