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Novel device developed that detects E.coli in potable water

Researchers, including one of Indian origin, have developed a device that can dramatically reduce the time and cost required for detecting the deadly E. coli bacteria in drinking water.

We have developed a hydrogel based rapid E. coli detection system that will turn red when E. coli is present” said Sushanta Mitra, professor at York University in Toronto.

It will detect the bacteria right at the water source before people start drinking contaminated water” Mitra said.

The testing device uses the porous hydrogel matrix, developed by Mitra’s team at his Micro & Nano-scale Transport Laboratory that cages specific enzymatic substrates that release certain enzymes in E. coli cells.

These enzymes then chemically react with the substrates to change colour. If there is no E. coli, the colour of the hydrogel won’t change, as there is no chemical reaction.

The results of the water test can be instantly broadcast using a mobile app already developed by the team.

The new technology can cut down the time taken to detect E. coli from a few days to just a couple of hours.

Traditional methods of testing for E. coli contamination involves collecting water

samples to send to an appropriate microbiological lab where the bacteria is cultured before a plate count is done to detect E. coli presence.

This is a significant improvement over the earlier version of the device, the Mobile Water Kit, that required more steps, handling of liquid chemicals and so on”” Mitra noted.

The entire system is developed using a readily available plunger-tube assembly. It is so user-friendly that even an untrained person can do the test using this kit”” he added.

It is also an inexpensive way to test drinking water (Rs.155 per test estimated), which is a boon for many developing countries, the researchers said.

Peace-lover, creative, smart and intelligent. Prapti is a foodie, music buff and a travelholic. After leaving a top-notch full time corporate job, she now works as an Online Editor for Biotecnika. Keen on making a mark in the scientific publishing industry, she strives to find a work-life balance. Follow her for more updates!