Abstract

Advanced electrochemical biosensor array utilizing highly selective peptide recognition elements for rapid bacterial detection. The technology combines optimized peptide bacterial binders combined with surface chemistry using sophisticated electrochemical detection methods, enabling sensitive and selective pathogen identification within minutes.

Background

The global bacterial detection market is expected to reach $19.5 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 8.1%¹. Current detection methods face significant challenges:

  • Mass spectrometer MALDI-TOF method requires expensive equipment ($200,000-500,000) and specialized laboratory settings and an access to an expansive program (Biotyper)
  • Antibody-based sensors have high production costs and limited stability and success
  • Traditional culture methods take 24-72 hours for results
  • PCR testing requires complex sample preparation and trained personnel on top of the growth steps that are required

Our Innovation

Electrochemical Biosensor with Engineered Peptide Recognition for Bacterial Detection

This cutting-edge electrochemical biosensor leverages precisely engineered peptide recognition elements to achieve rapid and accurate bacterial detection. The technology features optimized peptide monolayers with controlled surface density, ensuring exceptional sensitivity and selectivity.

Key Advantages:

  • Rapid Detection: Provides results within minutes, compared to hours or days required by traditional methods.
  • Cost-Effective Production: Lower manufacturing costs compared to antibody-based sensors.
  • Enhanced Selectivity: Utilizes optimized peptide sequences validated through Next-Generation Sequencing for superior detection accuracy.
  • Optimized Sensing Performance: Controlled peptide surface density ensures maximum reliability and functionality.
  • Exceptional Stability: Operates at room temperature with extended shelf life, reducing storage challenges.
  • Simplified Workflow: Requires minimal sample preparation without the need for enrichment steps.

Future Development

A biosensing array is under development to enable multiplexing capabilities, allowing simultaneous detection of multiple bacterial species for broader diagnostic applications.

Technology

The biosensor consists of:

  • Gold electrode array with immobilized selective peptides
  • Electrochemical impedance measurement system
  • Integrated signal processing

Validated features:

  • Successfully detected Pseudomonas aeruginosa with high selectivity
  • Minimal interference from non-target bacteria
  • Compatible with standard electrochemical readers

    Figure: Peptide shows selectivity towards PAO1 compared to E. coli and MRSA using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Results are Avg + SE of 3 different electrodes with 3 exposure repetitions. *p < 0.05 indicates a statistically significant difference between PAO1 to MRSA and E. coli.

    Opportunity

    • Primary markets: Food safety, medical diagnostics, water quality monitoring
    • Secondary markets: Pharmaceutical manufacturing, cosmetics testing
    • Estimated total addressable market: $5.4 billion by 2025⁴

    The researchers are looking for an industry partner to collaborate and sponsor additional research. The partner will receive an option to license the intellectual property at the end of the R&D.