Biosensors for the detection of bacteria.
This review will consider the role of biosensors towards the detection of infectious bacteria, although non-infectious ones will be considered where necessary. Recently, there has been a heightened interest in developing rapid and reliable methods of detection. This is especially true for detection of organisms involved in bioterrorism, food poisoning, and clinical problems such as antibiotic resistance. Biosensors can assist in achieving these goals, and sensors using several of the different types of transduction modes are discussed: electrochemical, high frequency (surface acoustic wave), and optical. The paper concludes with a discussion of three areas that may make a great impact in the next few years: integrated (lab-on-a-chip) systems, molecular beacons, and aptamers.
Deisingh
Anil K
AK
Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada. anildesingh@aol.com
Thompson
Michael
M
D001419:Bacteria / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D015374:Biosensing Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D023482:Bioterrorism; D024881:Drug Resistance, Bacterial; D005516:Food Microbiology