DIELECTROPHORETIC DEVICES FOR SEPARATING FOODBORNE PATHOGENS

Abstract

Today an increased interest in bioparticle separation research field is shown. Microtechnology and nanotechnology opens new perspectives in food quality analysis such as bioMEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems) devices for simultaneous detection of microorganism in food products with improved sensitivity and velocity [1]. Diseases caused by different foodborne pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, etc. have been a serious problem. Classical microbiological methods are taking a long time to confirm results for a particular pathogen organism. At present numerous rapid methods are being studied, for example polymerase chain reaction (PCR) [2], enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) [3], dielectrophoresis (DEP) [4,5], dielectrophoresis combined with ELISA, dielectrophoresis combined with electro rotation (ROT), travelling wave dielectrophoresis, etc. Dielectrophoresis is a method of manipulation of a micro particle in an electric field gradient which results from the interfacial polarization [6]. Using low voltages and temperatures below 39 degrees allows us no permanent damage to the cells. Theoretical modelling of behaviour in electric field is very important for the applications we need. Electrode arrangement from bioMEMS and channel geometries affects abilities to separate foodborne pathogens. This article describes the results obtained by our research team for manipulating bacteria with a specific electrode type of DEP.