Heptylmannose-functionalized cellulose for the binding and specific detection of pathogenic E. coli

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Microbiology

Background:

• Pathogenic Escherichia coli (E. coli) strains express FimH adhesin, crucial for infection.
• Current diagnostic methods for E. coli infections can be time-consuming and lack specificity.
• Cellulose nanofibers and paper offer a biocompatible and versatile platform for biomolecule immobilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel chemical functionalization method for cellulose materials.
• To create a diagnostic tool for the selective detection of pathogenic E. coli.
• To explore the potential of mannose-grafted cellulose for pathogen discrimination.

Main Methods:

• Covalent functionalization of cellulose nanofibers and paper with mannoside ligands.
• Utilizing the affinity of mannoside ligands for the FimH adhesin.
• Assessing the binding efficiency and selectivity of modified cellulose for E. coli strains.

Main Results:

• Successful covalent grafting of mannoside ligands onto cellulose substrates.
• Demonstrated selective binding of FimH lectin to mannose-functionalized cellulose.
• Achieved discrimination between pathogenic and non-pathogenic E. coli strains.

Conclusions:

• Mannose-grafted cellulose is an effective tool for selectively binding FimH and identifying pathogenic E. coli.
• This approach offers a promising avenue for rapid and specific diagnostics of E. coli-related infections.
• The methodology may be adaptable for detecting other pathogens expressing specific adhesins.