Optical sensors for rapid, sensitive detection and quantitation of bacterial spores
US6498041B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 18, 2000 |
| Grant date | Dec 24, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 27, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC12Q1/04
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Bacterial spores can be rapidly and sensitively detected and quantified based upon molecular recognition of unique chemicals in the spore coat. Spores can be detected and assayed based upon the calcium concentration in bacterial spore coats using the calcium which is unique to the bacterial spores. Since spores contain a high concentration of calcium relative to other biological materials, fluorescent calcium-sensitive indicators are used to detect Ca+2 displaced from the spore case or free in solution or from the aerosol phase. Visibly excitable fluorescent dyes provide a sensitive and selective means to monitor changes in spore concentration and avoid difficulties associated with laser or UV-excitation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.