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Rapid, accurate
identification and quantification of bacteria is important for many
different fields, including environmental biology, agriculture,
medicine, homeland security and even manned space missions. All
bacteria have DNA as their
genetic material, so dyes which bind DNA detect all bacteria. We
are using a fluorescent dye to bind DNA and develop a detection system
that can be used
anywhere. We are collaborating with the Department of Industrial
Technology and the Space Exploration Institute at College Station to
develop a portable LED based fluorescence microscope with automated
image analysis. This system will be able to count the number of
captured bacteria on any test filter. In addition, we are
developing an
antibody-based specific bacterial detection system that can be used to
count only one specific type of bacteria even in the presence of many
other types. With a series of antibodies, each detecting a
different type of bacteria, we will be able to develop a rapid test
system to identify pathogenic or bioterror agents in a fraction of the
time that it takes currently.