Glucose meters have been used to detect various pathogens and analytes. This has been achieved using different substrates that release glucose or other non-glucose analytes in the presence of an enzyme or by use of aptamers which release glucose upon binding with the target. Due to the presence of intrinsic glucose in blood or urine samples, detection of enzymes or pathogens in the blood becomes difficult. We have designed a panel of compounds that in the presence of enzyme releases paracetamol or catechol. Glucose strips were designed without glucose oxidase essential to detection of glucose which could still detect paracetamol/catechol. We have designed an assay where we have detected non glucose analytes using our compounds without any interference from glucose. Our assay also shows broad scope, we have been able to detect a-galactosidase, b-mannosidase, pathogens like Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumonia and influenza in simulated urine and defibrinated sheep blood. The sensitivity of the assay is high and time required for detection is 15 mins. The limit of detection of the analytes is extremely low and clinically relevant. Hence we have successfully repurposed glucose meters to detect non glucose analytes in blood or urine without interference from intrinsic glucose.

Rapid detection of enzymes, viruses, and bacteria using glucose meters

256th National Meeting (2018)

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