Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2026
08:23
Design and Development of Aptamer–Gold Nanoparticle Based Colorimetric Assays for In-the-field Applications
Published on: June 23, 2016
12.5K
A Paper-Based Colorimetric Aptasensor for the Detection of Gentamicin
Saipriya Ramalingam1, Christopher M Collier1, Ashutosh Singh1
1School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
Biosensors
|January 26, 2021
Summary
A new microfluidic paper biosensor detects gentamicin residues in milk. This rapid, visual test ensures milk safety for consumers and farmers, addressing public health concerns from veterinary antibiotic use.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Antibiotic residues in milk pose public health risks and economic challenges.
- Current detection methods are often not suitable for on-farm application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a rapid, on-farm detection system for gentamicin residues in milk.
- To create a visual and reliable biosensor for ensuring milk safety.
Main Methods:
- Design and development of a microfluidic paper biosensor.
- Utilizing gold nanoparticles and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) for visual detection.
- Employing DNA aptamers for specific gentamicin binding.
- Image J RGB analysis for result corroboration.
Main Results:
- Proof-of-concept detection system for gentamicin in milk.
- Visual feedback provided by LSPR properties of gold nanoparticles.
- Camera-based limit of detection (LOD) of 300 nM for gentamicin.
- Rapid assay with a reaction time of 2 minutes.
Conclusions:
- The developed microfluidic paper biosensor offers a quick and reliable method for on-farm gentamicin detection in milk.
- This technology can help ensure milk safety and compliance with regulatory limits.
- The biosensor provides a visual readout, making it accessible for on-site use.
