Complementary sensors for rapid and sensitive detection of wound bacteria

Dual sensors for timely wound bacterial infection detection through the measurement of pH and bacterial cell attachment were developed. A high sensitivity of -57.98 ± 7.08 mV/pH (pH 1-13; over 14 days) and a minimum detectable bacteria concentration of 103 CFU/mL was achieved for the pH and cell-based sensors, respectively. Sensors were capable of successfully monitoring growth of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) over time with and without antibiotics in simulated would fluid.