Electrochemical Sensor Detects Bird Flu

A new sensor of biologic substances has demonstrated a capability for the instantaneous detection of the H5N1 strain of avian influenza.

The real-time SmartSense detector, manufactured by BioWarn (Montgomery Village, MD, USA), uses a microchip to capture the electronic signature produced when the surface of the H5N1 strain contacts the sensor. Like a lock and key, this SmartSense detector is triggered only by the H5N1 target. The detector then automatically wirelessly transmits the identifying information to users.

In addition to the H5N1 strain of avian flu, potential targets include HIV; tuberculosis; hospital-acquired infectious agents such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), or E coli; bio-terrorism agents such as anthrax or smallpox; and any biomolecule that can bind to a SmartSense detector.

Using extremely small samples, SmartSense devices detect a target's presence based on electrochemical signatures that are immediately detectable and that are unique to each target. Detection is direct, positive, and binary, based on unique interaction signatures at the molecular level. Binding of the target molecule to the detector creates a real-time readout.

"Today, there are more unseen and dangerous threats to our health than ever before. Detecting avian flu using BioWarn's SmartSense system is a major breakthrough,” said Dr. James P. Wade, Jr., chairman of the board and CEO of BioWarn. "Using SmartSense, an outbreak of human avian flu can be detected and isolated in its early stages so that prevention, vaccines, and treatment can immediately be administered.”



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