Fiscal Year:
2002
Title:
REAL-TIME DETECTION OF BACTERIA IN PLATELET CONCENTRATES
Agency:
HHS
Contract:
1R43HL070360-01
Award Amount:
$136,210.00
Abstract:
DESCRIPTION (Provided by applicant): BCR Diagnostics, Inc. (BCR) proposes to
demonstrate the feasibility of adapting its LEXSAS (Label-free Exponential
Signal-Amplification System) technology for real-time bacteriologic analysis of
blood products intended for transfusion. The LEXSAS technology is unique in
that it uses spores as ultrasensitive nanodevices capable of emitting
fluorescent light signals when encountering single bacterial cells. This
extraordinary ability is due to integrated spore mechanisms for
sensing/transducing/amplifying discrete biomolecular signals in the milieu.
Based on theoretical considerations and preliminary studies, BCR expects that
the biosensor will have the following specifications: ability to detect a
single bacterium; ability to yield quantitative results in less than 60
minutes; minimal sample preparation; no labeling reagents (such as fluorescent,
radioisotopic or enzymatic reporter molecules) are required; linear detection
response over a wide dynamic range of one to 10E6 bacteria per ml; single use
(disposable), low manufacturing cost; and applicability to automated
high-throughput operations.
A real-time bacteriological biosensor should have a major impact not only in
making transfusions safer for patients, but also in the financial aspects of
blood banking.
PROPOSED COMMERCIAL APPLICATION: BCR's real-time bacteriologic biosaensor would have a critical impact in public health and other major industries now relying on culture-based testing that usually requires 16-48 hours for completion. Potential commercial applications of the technology include: (1) clinical diagnostics; (2) bioterrorism defense; (3) screening food and beverages; (4) environmental monitoring (air and water); (5) sterility testing; and (6) screening blood products intended for transfusion.
Small Business Information at Submission:
BCR DIAGNOSTICS
BCR DIAGNOSTICS 1062 EAST SHORE RD JAMESTOWN, RI 02835
EIN/Tax ID:
050416591
DUNS:
N/A
Number of Employees:
N/A
Woman-Owned:
No
Minority-Owned:
No
HUBZone-Owned:
No