Microelectrode array biosensor for the detection of Legionellapneumophila

A microelectrode array biosensor has been developed for the detection of Legionellapneumophila serogroup 5 suspended in solution. The biosensor consists of a glass substrate with measuring microelectrodes and a PDMS layer providing a reservoir on the glass surface. The surface of the microelectrodes is functionalized and the analyte-specific antibodies are immobilized to form a biological transducer. The detection is based on measuring the impedance changes across the electrodes which is immersed in the bacteria suspension contained in the reservoir. Therefore, the bacterial concentration in solution can be estimated by impedance change. It is feasible to detect Legionella concentration from 105 to 108 colony-forming units (CFU)/ml. Since this method provides a fast and easy measurement, it has the potential to be developed into miniaturized equipment that can be installed in cooling towers for the continuous monitoring of Legionella concentration.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide