Disposable Sensor Detects Wound Bacteria

Feb-09-16 A new disposable sensor able to quickly detect bacteria in wounds could help speed wound healing while reducing the use of antibiotics.

Developed by a team from George Washington University, the test is meant to reduce the need to apply broad-spectrum antibiotics “just in case” a wound is infected—which can lead to side-effects and bacterial resistance. The team created an affordable and disposable electronic sensor able to detect the molecule produced by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is common in chronic wounds. In tests, the sensor was able to correctly detect the bacterium 71 percent of the time, as well as identify its absence 57 percent of the time.

Image: Pseudomonas aeruginosa bactera

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[NIH.GOV]
[SMHS.GWU.EDU]

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