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Published on: November 28, 2016
OriPlex: Origami-enabled multiplexed detection of respiratory pathogens.
Andreu Vaquer1, Cristina Adrover-Jaume1, Antonio Clemente2
1Multidisciplinary Sepsis Group, Hospital Universitario Son Espases, Health Research Institute of Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Department of Chemistry, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
Researchers developed OriPlex, a novel 3D origami biosensor for rapid, multiplexed detection of bacterial pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. This paper-based system shows promise for diagnosing respiratory infections and guiding antibiotic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
- Microbiology
Background:
- Origami biosensors utilize paper's foldability for integrated "total analysis systems."
- Paper substrates offer unique advantages for incorporating complex features not feasible with rigid materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce OriPlex, a novel 3D origami biosensor design for multiplexed detection of bacterial pathogens.
- To demonstrate the capability of OriPlex for diagnosing lower respiratory tract infections.
Main Methods:
- OriPlex biosensors were designed using filter paper's foldability to integrate nanoparticle reservoirs and a central detection channel.
- Multiplexed detection was achieved by releasing antibody-coated nanoprobes upon folding, capturing target pathogens via physical interactions.
- The system was tested for detecting Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP) in spiked samples.
Main Results:
- The OriPlex biosensor achieved limits of detection of 3.4 × 10³ cfu mL⁻¹ for PA and 1.4 × 10² cfu mL⁻¹ for KP.
- A rapid turn-around time of 25 minutes was demonstrated for pathogen detection.
- Multiplexed detection of both PA and KP was successful in real bronchial aspirate samples at clinical infection thresholds.
Conclusions:
- The OriPlex 3D origami biosensor is suitable for diagnosing lower respiratory tract infections.
- This technology shows potential as a screening test for superbugs, aiding in personalized antibiotic selection for nosocomial pneumonia.
- OriPlex offers a versatile platform for developing advanced paper-based diagnostic tools.

