Bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infection, are crucial health problem. Here, we report a new quantitative technical platform to detect bacteria numbers sensitively, accurately, and quickly. First, a minimized, customizable, and 3D printed Ag+ selective electrode was developed as the probe. Our 3D printed electrode showed sensitive, linear, and selective responses to Ag+. Compared to commercial Ag+ electrodes, ours required less sample volume, shorter responding time, and lower costs. Next, a novel potentiometer was developed with Arduino to couple the electrode for data transducing and transferring, which was programmed to wirelessly transfer results to cell phones. Moreover, we developed a microfluidic apparatus for quick removal of interfering species in a biofluid sample (e.g., Cl-). With this sensor system, we could detect bacteria numbers as low as 80 CFU/mL (LOD) within 15 min, which is sufficient for many diagnoses (e.g., urinary tract infection &gt;1000 CFU/mL). We also proposed an amplification method for single-digit bacteria detection. Overall, we are presenting a bacteria detector with three innovative components: the electrode (signal transduction and detection), the potentiometer (transducer and data processing), and the microfluidics (sample preparation), which showed robust and improved (than previously reported ones) analytical merits. The low-cost and customizable (the electrode and the open-source coding) nature enhances the transnationality of the system, especially to underdeveloped areas.

Quantitative bacteria sensor composed of a 3D printed ion electrode, Arduino-based transducer with wireless data transfer, and microfluidics

ACS Spring 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.