Rapid bacterial detection through microfluidic integration with a glucometer

We present a novel approach for sensitive and portable detection of pathogenic bacteria, which is crucial for household and clinical practice. Our method employs immunoliposomes, antibodies, and microchip to detect specific pathogens quantitatively. Gold and metal metal-organic nanoparticles and liposomes were characterized using high-resolution techniques like TEM and SEM. Utilizing a commercial, personal glucose meter (PGM), we initially detected released glucose from antibody-modified liposomes and microchips with MOF-NPs. Detection on the microchip was achieved within 30 min, while the PGM analysis took only one minute for targeted bacteria, yielding glucose signals of 66 mg/dL and 69 mg/dL, respectively. Serial dilutions with group A-Streptococcus pyogenes (GAS) (1.4 × 10^{^4}-1.4 × 10^{^8} CFU/mL) demonstrated quantitative measurement applicability. This innovative approach and a portable PGM hold promise for various industries, including physician labs, hospitals, and households.