Proof of principle of a novel impedance microbiology method base on bacteriophages functionalised paramagnetic nanobeads

A novel and unconventional approach to impedance microbiology for the detection of Escherichia coli is under investigation. The detection principle of solution conductivity variation is based on intracellular content escape resulting from bacteriophage generated cell lysis. Bare electrodes on chip included in a PDMS chamber were applied to the impedance spectra measurements. Proofs of principle experiments were performed. In parallel, paramagnetic nano-beads were functionalised with selective phages for sample magnetic concentration and future methods integration. The system potential detection limit is about 10 CFU/chamber and provides the means for selective detection of viable cells only. The methods integration could provide cost–effective results in less than 1 hour