Newswise -- Researchers at the University of South Florida have found a better, faster method to detect Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, the biological hazard that can lurk in food or water and cause serious human illness and death.
Current detection methods requiring cultures can take from 24 to 48 hours to confirm the presence of E. coli. However, the method developed at USF, as explained in the October 2003 issue of The Journal of Microbiological Methods (Vol. 55, No.1), uses a combination of fiber optic biosensors and antibodies to initially detect E. coli in food or water, followed by recovery of live bacteria and confirmatory identification of their DNA sequence with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The new combination method can test for E coli in 10 hours.
"Rapid detection and identification can prevent food-borne and waterborne illness and allow physicians to begin treatment sooner for those thought to be suffering from E. coli contact," says Daniel Lim, PhD, professor of biology. "At the same time, rapidly reported negative test results will also prevent costly food recalls."
In the past, Lim and his team of researchers have used rapid fiber optic biosensors alone to identify E .coli in ground beef and apple cider and have been able to run tests successfully in 30 minutes. The recovery of live bacteria from biosensor tests not only permits follow-up PCR testing of a complex sample, but also provides a live sample to confirm that the bacteria are alive, allowing for other tests on the bacteria, such as tests for antibiotic resistance.
"It's important to be able to demonstrate that the sample tested was live bacteria, not dead bacteria," comments Lim.
According to Lim, by using two rapid tests in tandem - one based on an immunological reaction and one that identifies DNA - confirmation of the specific organism is assured.
"It can all be done in one workday," explains Lim.
Source: University of South Florida
Stay prepared and protected with Infection Control Today's newsletter, delivering essential updates, best practices, and expert insights for infection preventionists.
Flawed From the Start: Why Many IFUs for Surgical Instruments Fail in Real-World Sterile Processing
July 23rd 2025At the 2025 HSPA Annual Conference & Expo, Cori L. Ofstead, MSPH, highlighted critical flaws in manufacturers’ instructions for use (IFUs) for orthopedic and neurosurgical instruments. From contradictory directions to unrealistic cleaning expectations, these IFUs often fail under real-world conditions, jeopardizing both patient safety and sterile processing workflows.
US Withdrawal From UNESCO Signals a Dangerous Step Back for Global Science
July 22nd 2025In a decision heavy with consequence and light on foresight, the US has once again chosen to walk away from UNESCO, leaving behind not just a seat at the table, but a legacy of global scientific leadership that now lies in question.
Pathogen Pulse: Facilities Need the SPD, Yersinia Enterocolitica Outbreak, and More
July 22nd 2025From unsterilized surgical tools in Colorado to a years-long methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) outbreak in Virginia and a surging measles crisis in Canada, recent headlines reveal the fragile front lines of infection prevention and the high stakes when systems fail.
Telemedicine's Transformative Role in PPE Distribution and Sterile Equipment Management
July 22nd 2025In an era defined by digital transformation and post-pandemic urgency, telemedicine has evolved beyond virtual visits to become a vital infrastructure for delivering personal protective equipment (PPE) and managing sterile supplies. By enabling real-time forecasting, remote quality control, and equitable distribution, telemedicine is revolutionizing how health care systems protect both patients and providers.
Reducing Hidden Risks: Why Sharps Injuries Still Go Unreported
July 18th 2025Despite being a well-known occupational hazard, sharps injuries continue to occur in health care facilities and are often underreported, underestimated, and inadequately addressed. A recent interview with sharps safety advocate Amanda Heitman, BSN, RN, CNOR, a perioperative educational consultant, reveals why change is overdue and what new tools and guidance can help.
New Study Explores Oral Vancomycin to Prevent C difficile Recurrence, But Questions Remain
July 17th 2025A new clinical trial explores the use of low-dose oral vancomycin to prevent Clostridioides difficile recurrence in high-risk patients taking antibiotics. While the data suggest a possible benefit, the findings stop short of statistical significance and raise red flags about vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), underscoring the delicate balance between prevention and antimicrobial stewardship.