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Aruhomukama D, Magiidu WT, Katende G, Ebwongu RI, Bulafu D, Kasolo R, Nakabuye H, Musoke D, Asiimwe B. Evaluation of three protocols for direct susceptibility testing for gram negative-Enterobacteriaceae from patient samples in Uganda with SMS reporting. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2730. [PMID: 38302620 PMCID: PMC10834995 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53230-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
In Uganda, the challenge of generating and timely reporting essential antimicrobial resistance (AMR) data has led to overreliance on empirical antibiotic therapy, exacerbating the AMR crisis. To address this issue, this study aimed to adapt a one-step AMR testing protocol alongside an SMS (Short Message Service) result relay system (SRRS), with the potential to reduce the turnaround time for AMR testing and result communication from 4 days or more to 1 day in Ugandan clinical microbiology laboratories. Out of the 377 samples examined, 54 isolates were obtained. Notably, E. coli (61%) and K. pneumoniae (33%) were the most frequently identified, majority testing positive for ESBL. Evaluation of three AMR testing protocols revealed varying sensitivity and specificity, with Protocol A (ChromID ESBL-based) demonstrating high sensitivity (100%) but no calculable specificity, Protocol B (ceftazidime-based) showing high sensitivity (100%) and relatively low specificity (7.1%), and Protocol C (cefotaxime-based) exhibiting high sensitivity (97.8%) but no calculable specificity. ESBL positivity strongly correlated with resistance to specific antibiotics, including cefotaxime, ampicillin, and aztreonam (100%), cefuroxime (96%), ceftriaxone (93%), and trimethoprim sulfamethoxazole (87%). The potential of integrating an SRRS underscored the crucial role this could have in enabling efficient healthcare communication in AMR management. This study underscores the substantial potential of the tested protocols for accurately detecting ESBL production in clinical samples, potentially, providing a critical foundation for predicting and reporting AMR patterns. Although considerations related to specificity warrant careful assessment before widespread clinical adoption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dickson Aruhomukama
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Walusimbi Talemwa Magiidu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - George Katende
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Innocent Ebwongu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Douglas Bulafu
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rajab Kasolo
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hellen Nakabuye
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Musoke
- Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Benon Asiimwe
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Zhang X, Hou X, Feng W. Trace detection of canine distemper virus based on Michelson-interferometer sensing probe. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2024; 17:e202300329. [PMID: 37703422 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202300329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
A single-mode-fiber (SMF)-multimode-fiber (MMF)-tri-core-fiber (TCF) Michelson probe structure is proposed for trace detection of canine distemper virus (CDV). One end of the TCF is cut flat and fused with the multimode fiber, and the other end is coated with a silver film to enhance the reflection, and an optic-fiber sensing probe with SMF-MMF-TCF structure is obtained. The (PDDA/PSS)3 multilayer film is modified on the surface of the fiber by layer-by-layer self-assembly method as a polyelectrolyte binder to immobilize CDV antibodies to form a (PDDA/PSS)3 /CDV antibody composite membrane for specific detection of CDV antigens. The response-recovery test of the sensor is performed to verify its repeatability. The detection limit, the sensitivity, and the linear fitting degree for CDV antigen are 0.1236 pg/mL, 1.1776 dB/(pg/mL), and 0.9899, respectively. At the same time, the stability, selectivity, and clinical samples of the sensors were also verified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Zhang
- School of Science, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiangyu Hou
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
| | - Wenlin Feng
- School of Science, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Green Energy Materials Technology and Systems, Chongqing, China
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Ciaccheri L, Adinolfi B, Mencaglia AA, Mignani AG. Smartphone-Enabled Colorimetry. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:5559. [PMID: 37420724 DOI: 10.3390/s23125559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
A smartphone is used as a colorimeter. The performance characterization for colorimetry is presented using both the built-in camera and a clip-on dispersive grating. Certified colorimetric samples provided by Labsphere® are considered as test samples. Color measurements directly performed utilizing the smartphone camera only are obtained using the RGB Detector app, downloaded from the Google Play Store. More precise measurements are achieved using the commercially available GoSpectro grating and related app. In both cases, to quantify the reliability and sensitivity of smartphone-based color measurements, the CIELab color difference ΔE between the certified and smartphone-measured colors is calculated and is reported in this paper. In addition, as an example of a practical application of interest for the textile industry, several samples of cloth fabrics with a palette of the most common colors are measured, and the comparison with the certified color values is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Ciaccheri
- CNR-Istituto di Fisica Applicata "Nello Carrara", 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy
| | - Barbara Adinolfi
- CNR-Istituto di Fisica Applicata "Nello Carrara", 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy
| | | | - Anna Grazia Mignani
- CNR-Istituto di Fisica Applicata "Nello Carrara", 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, FI, Italy
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Salam MA, Al-Amin MY, Pawar JS, Akhter N, Lucy IB. Conventional methods and future trends in antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Saudi J Biol Sci 2023; 30:103582. [PMID: 36852413 PMCID: PMC9958398 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2023.103582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is an essential task for selecting appropriate antimicrobial agents to treat infectious diseases. Constant evolution has been observed in methods used in the diagnostic microbiology laboratories. Disc diffusion or broth microdilution are classical and conventional phenotypic methods with long turnaround time and labour-intensive but still widely practiced as gold-standard. Scientists are striving to develop innovative, novel and faster methods of antimicrobial susceptibility testing to be applicable for routine microbiological laboratory practice and research. To meet the requirements, there is an increasing trend towards automation, genotypic and micro/nano technology-based innovations. Automation in detection systems and integration of computers for online data analysis and data sharing are giant leaps towards versatile nature of automated methods currently in use. Genotypic methods detect a specific genetic marker associated with resistant phenotypes using molecular amplification techniques and genome sequencing. Microfluidics and microdroplets are recent addition in the continuous advancement of methods that show great promises with regards to safety and speed and have the prospect to identify and monitor resistance mechanisms. Although genotypic and microfluidics methods have many exciting features, however, their applications into routine clinical laboratory practice warrant extensive validation. The main impetus behind the evolution of methods in antimicrobial susceptibility testing is to shorten the overall turnaround time in obtaining the results and to enhance the ease of sample processing. This comprehensive narrative review summarises major conventional phenotypic methods and automated systems currently in use, and highlights principles of some of the emerging genotypic and micro/nanotechnology-based methods in antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
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Key Words
- ADR, Adverse drug reaction
- AMR, Antimicrobial resistance
- AST, Antimicrobial susceptibility testing
- ATCC, American Type Culture Collection
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing
- Automations
- CFU, Colony forming units
- CLSI, Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute
- Conventional methods
- DOT-MGA, Direct-On-Target Microdroplet Growth Assay
- EUCAST, European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing
- Etest, Epsilometer testing
- Genotypic methods
- ID, Identification
- MALDI-TOF MS, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-Of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
- MBC, Minimum bactericidal concentration
- MDR, Multi drug resistant
- MHA, Muller Hinton Agar
- MIC, Minimum inhibitory concentration
- Micro/nanotechnology-based techniques
- NAAT, Nucleic Acid Amplification Test
- PCR, Polymerase chain reaction
- PMF, Peptide mass fingerprint
- POC, Point of care
- WGS, Whole Genome Sequencing
- ZOI, Zone of inhibition
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Abdus Salam
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Kulliyyah of Medicine, International Islamic University, Malaysia
| | - Md. Yusuf Al-Amin
- Purdue University Interdisciplinary Life Sciences Graduate Program, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA,Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Jogendra Singh Pawar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Naseem Akhter
- Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Irine Banu Lucy
- Department of Physics, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh,Corresponding author at: Department of Physics, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh.
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Kasoju N, Remya NS, Sasi R, Sujesh S, Soman B, Kesavadas C, Muraleedharan CV, Varma PRH, Behari S. Digital health: trends, opportunities and challenges in medical devices, pharma and bio-technology. CSI TRANSACTIONS ON ICT 2023; 11:11-30. [PMCID: PMC10089382 DOI: 10.1007/s40012-023-00380-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Digital health interventions refer to the use of digital technology and connected devices to improve health outcomes and healthcare delivery. This includes telemedicine, electronic health records, wearable devices, mobile health applications, and other forms of digital health technology. To this end, several research and developmental activities in various fields are gaining momentum. For instance, in the medical devices sector, several smart biomedical materials and medical devices that are digitally enabled are rapidly being developed and introduced into clinical settings. In the pharma and allied sectors, digital health-focused technologies are widely being used through various stages of drug development, viz. computer-aided drug design, computational modeling for predictive toxicology, and big data analytics for clinical trial management. In the biotechnology and bioengineering fields, investigations are rapidly growing focus on digital health, such as omics biology, synthetic biology, systems biology, big data and personalized medicine. Though digital health-focused innovations are expanding the horizons of health in diverse ways, here the development in the fields of medical devices, pharmaceutical technologies and biotech sectors, with emphasis on trends, opportunities and challenges are reviewed. A perspective on the use of digital health in the Indian context is also included.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naresh Kasoju
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
| | - N. S. Remya
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
| | - Renjith Sasi
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
| | - S. Sujesh
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
| | - Biju Soman
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
| | - C. Kesavadas
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
| | - C. V. Muraleedharan
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
| | - P. R. Harikrishna Varma
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
| | - Sanjay Behari
- Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, 695011 Kerala India
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Yang G, Li Y, Tang C, Lin F, Wu T, Bao J. Smartphone-Based Quantitative Analysis of Protein Array Signals for Biomarker Detection in Lupus. CHEMOSENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 10:330. [PMID: 36072130 PMCID: PMC9447405 DOI: 10.3390/chemosensors10080330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Fluorescence-based microarray offers great potential in clinical diagnostics due to its high-throughput capability, multiplex capabilities, and requirement for a minimal volume of precious clinical samples. However, the technique relies on expensive and complex imaging systems for the analysis of signals. In the present study, we developed a smartphone-based application to analyze signals from protein microarrays to quantify disease biomarkers. The application adopted Android Studio open platform for its wide access to smartphones, and Python was used to design a graphical user interface with fast data processing. The application provides multiple user functions such as "Read", "Analyze", "Calculate" and "Report". For rapid and accurate results, we used ImageJ, Otsu thresholding, and local thresholding to quantify the fluorescent intensity of spots on the microarray. To verify the efficacy of the application, three antigens each with over 110 fluorescent spots were tested. Particularly, a positive correlation of over 0.97 was achieved when using this analytical tool compared to a standard test for detecting a potential biomarker in lupus nephritis. Collectively, this smartphone application tool shows promise for cheap, efficient, and portable on-site detection in point-of-care diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Yang
- Materials Science & Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Yaxi Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Chenling Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Feng Lin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas Center for Superconductivity (TCSUH), University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Tianfu Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Jiming Bao
- Materials Science & Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas Center for Superconductivity (TCSUH), University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
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Point-of-Care Diagnostics for Farm Animal Diseases: From Biosensors to Integrated Lab-on-Chip Devices. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12070455. [PMID: 35884258 PMCID: PMC9312888 DOI: 10.3390/bios12070455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Zoonoses and animal diseases threaten human health and livestock biosecurity and productivity. Currently, laboratory confirmation of animal disease outbreaks requires centralized laboratories and trained personnel; it is expensive and time-consuming, and it often does not coincide with the onset or progress of diseases. Point-of-care (POC) diagnostics are rapid, simple, and cost-effective devices and tests, that can be directly applied on field for the detection of animal pathogens. The development of POC diagnostics for use in human medicine has displayed remarkable progress. Nevertheless, animal POC testing has not yet unfolded its full potential. POC devices and tests for animal diseases face many challenges, such as insufficient validation, simplicity, and portability. Emerging technologies and advanced materials are expected to overcome some of these challenges and could popularize animal POC testing. This review aims to: (i) present the main concepts and formats of POC devices and tests, such as lateral flow assays and lab-on-chip devices; (ii) summarize the mode of operation and recent advances in biosensor and POC devices for the detection of farm animal diseases; (iii) present some of the regulatory aspects of POC commercialization in the EU, USA, and Japan; and (iv) summarize the challenges and future perspectives of animal POC testing.
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Stauss M, Dhaygude A, Ponnusamy A, Myers M, Woywodt A. Remote Digital Urinalysis With Smartphone Technology as Part of Remote Management of Glomerular Disease During the SARS-CoV-2 Virus Pandemic: Single Centre Experience in 25 Patients. Clin Kidney J 2021; 15:903-911. [PMID: 35498887 PMCID: PMC9050594 DOI: 10.1093/ckj/sfab286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated the provision of healthcare through remote and increasingly digitalized means. The management of glomerular pathology, for which urinalysis is crucial, has been notably affected. Here we describe our single-centre experience of using remote digital urinalysis in the management of patients with glomerular disease during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method All patients with native kidney glomerular disease who consented to participate in digital smartphone urinalysis monitoring between March 2020 and July 2021 were included. Electronic health records were contemporaneously reviewed for outcome data. Patient feedback was obtained through the testing portal. Results Twenty-five patients utilized the digital urinalysis application. A total of 105 digital urinalysis tests were performed for a wide variety of indications. Four patients experienced a relapse (detected remotely) and two patients underwent three successful pregnancies. The majority of patients were managed virtually (60%) or virtually and face to face (F2F) combined (32%). The average number of clinic reviews and urine tests performed during the pandemic either virtually and/or F2F was comparable to levels pre-pandemic and the ratio of reviews to urinalysis (R:U) was stable (pre-pandemic 1:0.9 versus during the pandemic 1:0.8). Patients seen exclusively F2F with supplementary home monitoring had the highest R:U ratio at 1:2.1. A total of 95% of users provided feedback, all positive. Conclusion Remote urinalysis proved a safe and convenient tool to facilitate decision-making where traditional urinalysis was difficult, impractical or impossible. Our approach allowed us to continue care in this vulnerable group of patients despite a lack of access to traditional urinalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelena Stauss
- Department of Nephrology, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK
- Division of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester
| | - Ajay Dhaygude
- Division of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester
| | - Arvind Ponnusamy
- Division of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester
| | - Martin Myers
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Preston, UK
| | - Alexander Woywodt
- Division of Medical Education, School of Medical Sciences, University of Manchester
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Development of an Automated, Non-Enzymatic Nucleic Acid Amplification Test. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:mi12101204. [PMID: 34683255 PMCID: PMC8538085 DOI: 10.3390/mi12101204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Among nucleic acid diagnostic strategies, non-enzymatic tests are the most promising for application at the point of care in low-resource settings. They remain relatively under-utilized, however, due to inadequate sensitivity. Inspired by a recent demonstration of a highly-sensitive dumbbell DNA amplification strategy, we developed an automated, self-contained assay for detection of target DNA. In this new diagnostic platform, called the automated Pi-powered looping oligonucleotide transporter, magnetic beads capture the target DNA and are then loaded into a microfluidic reaction cassette along with the other reaction solutions. A stepper motor controls the motion of the cassette relative to an external magnetic field, which moves the magnetic beads through the reaction solutions automatically. Real-time fluorescence is used to measure the accumulation of dumbbells on the magnetic bead surface. Left-handed DNA dumbbells produce a distinct signal which reflects the level of non-specific amplification, acting as an internal control. The autoPiLOT assay detected as little as 5 fM target DNA, and was also successfully applied to the detection of S. mansoni DNA. The autoPiLOT design is a novel step forward in the development of a sensitive, user-friendly, low-resource, non-enzymatic diagnostic test.
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Nichols ZE, Geddes CD. Sample Preparation and Diagnostic Methods for a Variety of Settings: A Comprehensive Review. Molecules 2021; 26:5666. [PMID: 34577137 PMCID: PMC8470389 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26185666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Sample preparation is an essential step for nearly every type of biochemical analysis in use today. Among the most important of these analyses is the diagnosis of diseases, since their treatment may rely greatly on time and, in the case of infectious diseases, containing their spread within a population to prevent outbreaks. To address this, many different methods have been developed for use in the wide variety of settings for which they are needed. In this work, we have reviewed the literature and report on a broad range of methods that have been developed in recent years and their applications to point-of-care (POC), high-throughput screening, and low-resource and traditional clinical settings for diagnosis, including some of those that were developed in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition to covering alternative approaches and improvements to traditional sample preparation techniques such as extractions and separations, techniques that have been developed with focuses on integration with smart devices, laboratory automation, and biosensors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zach E. Nichols
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Drive, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA;
- Institute of Fluorescence, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 701 E Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21270, USA
| | - Chris D. Geddes
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Drive, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA;
- Institute of Fluorescence, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 701 E Pratt Street, Baltimore, MD 21270, USA
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Last K, Power NR, Dellière S, Velikov P, Šterbenc A, Antunovic IA, Lopes MJ, Schweitzer V, Barac A. Future developments in training. Clin Microbiol Infect 2021; 27:1595-1600. [PMID: 34197928 PMCID: PMC8280350 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2021.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has demonstrated the value of highly skilled and extensively trained specialists in clinical microbiology (CM) and infectious diseases (ID). Training curricula in CM and ID must constantly evolve to prepare trainees for future pandemics and to allow trainees to reach their full clinical and academic potential. OBJECTIVES In this narrative review, we aim to outline necessary future adaptations in CM and ID training curricula and identify current structural barriers in training with the aim of discussing possibilities to address these shortcomings. SOURCES We reviewed literature from PubMed and included selected books and online publications as appropriate. There was no time constraint on the included publications. CONTENT Drawing from the lessons learnt during the pandemic, we summarize novel digital technologies relevant to CM and ID trainees and highlight interdisciplinary teamwork and networking skills as important competencies. We centre CM and ID training within the One Health framework and discuss gender inequalities and structural racism as barriers in both CM and ID training and patient care. IMPLICATIONS CM and ID trainees should receive training and support developing skills in novel digital technologies, leadership, interdisciplinary teamwork and networking. Equally important is the need for equity of opportunity, with firm commitments to end gender inequality and structural racism in CM and ID. Policy-makers and CM and ID societies should ensure that trainees are better equipped to achieve their professional goals and are better prepared for the challenges awaiting in their fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Last
- Centre for Infectious Diseases, Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hygiene, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.
| | - Nicholas R Power
- Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, Setanta House, 1 Setanta Pl, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Sarah Dellière
- Université de Paris, Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Groupe Hospitalier Saint-Louis-Lariboisière-Fernand-Widal, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Paris, France
| | - Petar Velikov
- Infectious Diseases Hospital Prof. Ivan Kirov and Department of Infectious Diseases, Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Anja Šterbenc
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ivana Antal Antunovic
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital for Infectious Diseases, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maria João Lopes
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal
| | - Valentijn Schweitzer
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Aleksandra Barac
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
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García-Bernalt Diego J, Fernández-Soto P, Muro A. LAMP in Neglected Tropical Diseases: A Focus on Parasites. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11030521. [PMID: 33804255 PMCID: PMC8000616 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11030521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), particularly those caused by parasites, remain a major Public Health problem in tropical and subtropical regions, with 10% of the world population being infected. Their management and control have been traditionally hampered, among other factors, by the difficulty to deploy rapid, specific, and affordable diagnostic tools in low resource settings. This is especially true for complex PCR-based methods. Isothermal nucleic acid amplification techniques, particularly loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), appeared in the early 21st century as an alternative to PCR, allowing for a much more affordable molecular diagnostic. Here, we present the status of LAMP assays development in parasite-caused NTDs. We address the progress made in different research applications of the technique: xenomonitoring, epidemiological studies, work in animal models and clinical application both for diagnosis and evaluation of treatment success. Finally, we try to shed a light on the improvements needed to achieve a true point-of-care test and the future perspectives in this field.
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A Smartphone Camera Colorimetric Assay of Acetylcholinesterase and Butyrylcholinesterase Activity. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21051796. [PMID: 33807562 PMCID: PMC7961819 DOI: 10.3390/s21051796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) can serve as biochemical markers of various pathologies like liver disfunction and poisonings by nerve agents. Ellman’s assay is the standard spectrophotometric method to measure cholinesterase activity in clinical laboratories. The authors present a new colorimetric test to assess AChE and BChE activity in biological samples using chromogenic reagents, treated 3D-printed measuring pads and a smartphone camera as a signal detector. Multiwell pads treated with reagent substrates 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenyl acetate, indoxylacetate, ethoxyresorufin and methoxyresorufin were prepared and tested for AChE and BChE. In the experiments, 3D-printed pads containing indoxylacetate as a chromogenic substrate were optimal for analytical purposes. The best results were achieved using the red (R) channel, where the limit of detection was 4.05 µkat/mL for BChE and 4.38 µkat/mL for AChE using a 40 µL sample and a 60 min assay. The major advantage of this method is its overall simplicity, as samples are applied directly without any specific treatment or added reagents. The assay was also validated to the standard Ellman’s assay using human plasma samples. In conclusion, this smartphone camera-based colorimetric assay appears to have practical applicability and to be a suitable method for point-of-care testing because it does not require specific manipulation, additional education of staff or use of sophisticated analytical instruments.
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Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification in Schistosomiasis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030511. [PMID: 33535489 PMCID: PMC7867102 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Human schistosomiasis is one of the most important parasitic diseases, causing around 250 million cases (mostly in Africa) and 280,000–500,000 deaths every year. Due to the limited resources and the far-removed nature of many endemic areas, the implementation of new, sensitive and specific diagnostic tools has had little success. This is particularly true for PCR-based molecular methods that require expensive equipment and trained personnel to be executed. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) along with other isothermal techniques appeared in the early 21st century as an alternative to those methods, overcoming some of the aforementioned limitations and achieving a more inexpensive diagnostic. However, to this date, neither LAMP nor any other isothermal technique have signified a meaningful change in the way schistosomiasis diagnosis is routinely performed. Here, we present the recent developments in LAMP-based schistosomiasis diagnosis. We expose the main advantages and disadvantages of LAMP technology over PCR and other classical diagnostic methods focusing in various research approaches on intermediate hosts, animal models and patients. We also examine its potential clinical application in post-therapy monitoring, as well as its usefulness as a point-of-care test.
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Abstract
Analytical devices for point-of-care diagnoses are highly desired and would improve quality of life when first diagnoses are made early and pathologies are recognized soon. Lateral flow tests (LFTs) are such tools that can be easily performed without specific equipment, skills, or experiences. This review is focused on the use of LFT in point-of-care diagnoses. The principle of the assay is explained, and new materials like nanoparticles for labeling, new recognition molecules for interaction with an analyte, and new additional instrumentation like signal scaling by a smartphone camera are described and discussed. Advantages of the LFT devices as well as their limitations are described and discussed here considering actual papers that are properly cited.
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Kumar S, Nehra M, Khurana S, Dilbaghi N, Kumar V, Kaushik A, Kim KH. Aspects of Point-of-Care Diagnostics for Personalized Health Wellness. Int J Nanomedicine 2021; 16:383-402. [PMID: 33488077 PMCID: PMC7814661 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s267212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Advancements in analytical diagnostic systems for point-of-care (POC) application have gained considerable attention because of their rapid operation at the site required to manage severe diseases, even in a personalized manner. The POC diagnostic devices offer easy operation, fast analytical outcome, and affordable cost, which promote their advanced research and versatile adoptability. Keeping advantages in view, considerable efforts are being made to design and develop smart sensing components such as miniaturized transduction, interdigitated electrodes-based sensing chips, selective detection at low level, portable packaging, and sustainable durability to promote POC diagnostics according to the needs of patient care. Such effective diagnostics systems are in demand, which creates the challenge to make them more efficient in every aspect to generate a desired bio-informatic needed for better health access and management. Keeping advantages and scope in view, this mini review focuses on practical scenarios associated with miniaturized analytical diagnostic devices at POC application for targeted disease diagnostics smartly and efficiently. Moreover, advancements in technologies, such as smartphone-based operation, paper-based sensing assays, and lab-on-a-chip (LOC) which made POC more sensitive, informative, and suitable for major infectious disease diagnosis, are the main focus here. Besides, POC diagnostics based on automated patient sample integration with a sensing platform is continuously improving therapeutics interventions against specific infectious disease. This review also discussed challenges associated with state-of-the-art technology along with future research opportunities to design and develop next generation POC diagnostic systems needed to manage infectious diseases in a personalized manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep Kumar
- Department of Bio and Nano Technology, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana 125001, India
| | - Monika Nehra
- Department of Bio and Nano Technology, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana 125001, India
| | - Sakina Khurana
- Department of Bio and Nano Technology, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana 125001, India
| | - Neeraj Dilbaghi
- Department of Bio and Nano Technology, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana 125001, India
| | - Vanish Kumar
- National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Ajeet Kaushik
- NanoBioTech Laboratory, Department of Natural Sciences, Division of Sciences, Art, & Mathematics, Florida Polytechnic University, Lakeland, FL, 33805-8531, USA
| | - Ki-Hyun Kim
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
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Barac A, Poljak M, Ong DSY. Editorial: Innovative Approaches in Diagnosis of Emerging/Re-emerging Infectious Diseases. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:619498. [PMID: 33343557 PMCID: PMC7744347 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.619498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Barac
- Clinic for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mario Poljak
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - David S Y Ong
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, Franciscus Gasthuis & Vlietland, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Epidemiology, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
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Systematic Review of Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens of Small Ruminants in Pakistan. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9110937. [PMID: 33187238 PMCID: PMC7696454 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks and tick-borne diseases (TTBDis) are a major constraint to the health and production of small ruminants in Pakistan. Despite being the subject of intermittent studies over the past few decades, comprehensive information on the epidemiology and control of TTBDis is lacking. Herein, we have systematically reviewed the current knowledge on TTBDis of small ruminants in Pakistan. Critical appraisal of the selected 71 articles published between 1947 to 2020 revealed that morphological examination had been the most widely used method for the identification of TTBDis in Pakistan. Tick fauna comprise at least 40 species, mainly belonging to Haemaphysalis, Hyalomma and Rhipicephalus. The prevalence of ticks is the highest in summer (June–September) and it is also higher in goats than sheep. Anaplasma, Babesia and Theileria spp. are the major tick-borne pathogens (TBPs), and their prevalence is usually higher in sheep than goats. Spatio-temporal distribution, genetic diversity and control of ticks and TBPs of small ruminants as well as the competence of tick vectors for various TBPs remain to be explored. Therefore, coordinated and focused investigations are required to fill knowledge gaps in these areas to maximise the health, production and welfare of small ruminants and minimise economic losses associated with TTBDis in Pakistan.
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Gunasekaran R, Lalitha P, Megia-Fernandez A, Bradley M, Williams RL, Dhaliwal K, Prajna NV, Mills B. Exploratory Use of Fluorescent SmartProbes for the Rapid Detection of Microbial Isolates Causing Corneal Ulcer. Am J Ophthalmol 2020; 219:341-350. [PMID: 32574778 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the use of optical SmartProbes for the rapid evaluation of corneal scrapes from patients with suspected microbial keratitis, as a clinical alternative to Gram stain. DESIGN Experimental study with evaluation of a diagnostic technology. METHODS Corneal scrapes were collected from 267 patients presenting with microbial keratitis at a referral cornea clinic in South India. Corneal scrapes were flooded with SmartProbes (BAC One or BAC Two) and evaluated by fluorescence microscopy (without the need for sample washing or further processing). The SmartProbe-labeled samples were scored as bacteria/fungi/none (BAC One) or gram-negative bacteria/none (BAC Two) and compared to Gram stain results. RESULTS Compared to Gram stain, BAC One demonstrated sensitivity and specificity of 80.0% and 87.5%, respectively, positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV) of 93.8% and 65.1%, and an accuracy of 82.2. BAC Two demonstrated sensitivity and specificity of 93.3% and 84.8%, respectively, an NPV of 99.2%, and an accuracy of 85.6%. When the corresponding culture results were compared to the Gram stain result, the sensitivity and specificity were 73.4% and 70.7%, the PPV and NPVs were 86.5% and 51.0%, and overall accuracy was 72.6. CONCLUSIONS Fluorescent SmartProbes offer a comparative method to Gram stain for delineating gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria or fungi within corneal scrapes. We demonstrate equivalent or higher sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPVs, and accuracy than culture to Gram stain. Our approach has scope for point-of-care clinical application to aid in the diagnosis of microbial keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Prajna Lalitha
- Departments of Ocular Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai, India
| | | | - Mark Bradley
- EaStChem, School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel L Williams
- Department of Eye and Vision Science, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Dhaliwal
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Bethany Mills
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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Validation of a Rapid Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Colorimetric Evaluation for Assessing the Severity of Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage in Horses in Field Conditions. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 95:103284. [PMID: 33276915 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Diagnosis and assessment of severity of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) relies on postexercise visualization of fresh blood in the airways via tracheobronchoscopic examination (TBE) and/or counting erythrocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALFRBC). Determining the BALFRBC is more sensitive than TBE but its usefulness is hampered by the need to have BALFRBC counted at a laboratory. We explored the feasibility of evaluating the severity of EIPH by using a color chart comprised of five shades of red and matching those colors with the color of BALF immediately following collection. To validate the technique, sets of ten BALF samples with known BALFRBC numbers were created and randomly shown to two groups of 18 observers who independently matched the color of the BALF with one of the shades of red displayed on the screen of a smartphone. Interobserver and intra-observer agreements regarding colors were > 0.9. The utility of the color chart was further validated under field conditions at two barrel racing events where 63 BALF samples were collected from 21 horses and BALF color was graded independently by three observers. The number of BALFRBC in the 63 samples ranged from 25-1,100,000/μL. EIPH was diagnosed in 39 samples based on the detection of color, and all 5 colors were matched multiple times with BALF samples. Overall, the color of the BALF was related to the number of BALFRBC. Colorimetric evaluation of BALF represents a practical and reliable option for rapid postexercise assessment of the presence and severity of EIPH.
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Poljak M. Simplification of hepatitis C testing: a time to act. ACTA DERMATOVENEROLOGICA ALPINA PANNONICA ET ADRIATICA 2020. [DOI: 10.15570/actaapa.2020.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Fleury A. Development of point-of-care tests for Taenia solium: one of the ways to obtain a better diagnosis and therapeutic management of patients, and to reach eradication. Pathog Glob Health 2020; 113:323-324. [PMID: 31902345 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2019.1709272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Agnès Fleury
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México/Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía, Ciudad de México, México
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Sanguinetti M, Seme K, Poljak M. Mobile microbiology: an evolving concept in diagnosis of infectious diseases. Clin Microbiol Infect 2020; 26:409-410. [PMID: 31899335 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2019.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M Sanguinetti
- Istituto di Microbiologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy; Dipartimento di Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - K Seme
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - M Poljak
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Baldi P, La Porta N. Molecular Approaches for Low-Cost Point-of-Care Pathogen Detection in Agriculture and Forestry. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2020; 11:570862. [PMID: 33193502 PMCID: PMC7655913 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2020.570862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Early detection of plant diseases is a crucial factor to prevent or limit the spread of a rising infection that could cause significant economic loss. Detection test on plant diseases in the laboratory can be laborious, time consuming, expensive, and normally requires specific technical expertise. Moreover, in the developing countries, it is often difficult to find laboratories equipped for this kind of analysis. Therefore, in the past years, a high effort has been made for the development of fast, specific, sensitive, and cost-effective tests that can be successfully used in plant pathology directly in the field by low-specialized personnel using minimal equipment. Nucleic acid-based methods have proven to be a good choice for the development of detection tools in several fields, such as human/animal health, food safety, and water analysis, and their application in plant pathogen detection is becoming more and more common. In the present review, the more recent nucleic acid-based protocols for point-of-care (POC) plant pathogen detection and identification are described and analyzed. All these methods have a high potential for early detection of destructive diseases in agriculture and forestry, they should help make molecular detection for plant pathogens accessible to anyone, anywhere, and at any time. We do not suggest that on-site methods should replace lab testing completely, which remains crucial for more complex researches, such as identification and classification of new pathogens or the study of plant defense mechanisms. Instead, POC analysis can provide a useful, fast, and efficient preliminary on-site screening that is crucial in the struggle against plant pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Baldi
- IASMA Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Trento, Italy
- *Correspondence: Paolo Baldi,
| | - Nicola La Porta
- IASMA Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Trento, Italy
- The EFI Project Centre on Mountain Forests (MOUNTFOR), San Michele a/Adige, Trento, Italy
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