Rapid, simple methods for detection of microbial contamination of water are needed to replace the tedious and complex standard culture methodology. Systems based on detection of microbial ATP through the bioluminescent reaction of luciferin-luciferase have been developed. However, of these systems has been hampered by the instability of luciferin and by the complexity of the instrumentation used to measure for light emission. To overcome these problems, the company has developed unique methods of immobilizing and stabilizing luciferin- luciferase in a solid phase format, including a hand-held photo-multiplier-tube-based luminometer capable of very sensitive measurement of emitted light. This project will use these technologies to devise a system which detects microbial contamination of water samples.The system will be based on a filter unit with a port for insertable cards holding glass fiber filters. Once the sample is processed, the card can be inserted into the luminometer for measurement. Especially during space flight, this system offers an easy-to-use and sensitive method to measure microbial contamination. The method can also be extended to measure microbial contamination on surfaces, in food, and in the air.
Potential Commercial Applications:This system can be used for rapid clinical testing for urinary tract infections, bacteria in cerebral spinal fluid, and in peritoneal fluid from peritoneal dialysis patents, other possible applications will be in the food industry testing for microbial contamination of processed beverages, milk, and prepared foods; the industrial, quality control monitoring of sanitation processes and clean room processes; and in environmental monitoring for bacterial load in drinking water and at remediation sites.
