ID :
180544
Sat, 05/07/2011 - 11:40
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Shortlink :
https://www.oananews.org//node/180544
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Researchers Develop Simple Test for Identifying Deadly Bacteria
TEHRAN, May 7 (FNA)- Biochemists developed a simple test that can swiftly and accurately identify specific pathogens using a system that will hunt for bacteria, identifying their harmful presence before they have a chance to contaminate our food and water.
Like any living thing, bacteria have their own spoor, leaving behind DNA trails of bacterial 'droppings'. Biochemist Yingfu Li and his research team track these metabolic by-products with molecular beacons -- little lighthouses on a molecular scale that actually light up when they detect the DNA sequence left behind.
Li created a DNAzyme sensor that will be able to identify any bacteria, utilizing a method that doesn't require the steps and specialized equipment typically used to identify whether or not harmful bacteria are present.
"Current methods of foodborne bacterial detection take time. The five days it takes to detect listeria, for example, can translate into an outbreak that costs lives. We have developed a universal test that uses less complex procedures but still generates precise and accurate results," said Li, a Canada Research Chair in Directed Evolution of Nucleic Acids.
Li's fluorescent test system was highlighted in Angewandte Chemie International Edition. Li's paper, co-authored with lab members Monsur Ali, Sergio Aguirre and Hadeer Lazim, was designated a 'hot paper' by Angewandte's editors for its "importance in a rapidly evolving field of current interest."
"McMaster researchers are known for their ability to provide solutions to problems that impact the public's well-being. The test that Professor Li has developed will help safeguard the health of Canadians, and supply industry with a reliable means to bring safe food products to consumers and reduce their time to market," said Mo Elbestawi, vice-president, research and international affairs.
Like any living thing, bacteria have their own spoor, leaving behind DNA trails of bacterial 'droppings'. Biochemist Yingfu Li and his research team track these metabolic by-products with molecular beacons -- little lighthouses on a molecular scale that actually light up when they detect the DNA sequence left behind.
Li created a DNAzyme sensor that will be able to identify any bacteria, utilizing a method that doesn't require the steps and specialized equipment typically used to identify whether or not harmful bacteria are present.
"Current methods of foodborne bacterial detection take time. The five days it takes to detect listeria, for example, can translate into an outbreak that costs lives. We have developed a universal test that uses less complex procedures but still generates precise and accurate results," said Li, a Canada Research Chair in Directed Evolution of Nucleic Acids.
Li's fluorescent test system was highlighted in Angewandte Chemie International Edition. Li's paper, co-authored with lab members Monsur Ali, Sergio Aguirre and Hadeer Lazim, was designated a 'hot paper' by Angewandte's editors for its "importance in a rapidly evolving field of current interest."
"McMaster researchers are known for their ability to provide solutions to problems that impact the public's well-being. The test that Professor Li has developed will help safeguard the health of Canadians, and supply industry with a reliable means to bring safe food products to consumers and reduce their time to market," said Mo Elbestawi, vice-president, research and international affairs.
