Can We Get E. coli Results Faster from Models & Fluorometry?

E.coli densities are used for determining water quality and illnesses risks for swimmers who utilize recreational waters. Existing approaches that are now utilized take 18-24 hours, which is too long since water conditions may change rapidly. More rapid methods for water quality determination include the use of predictive models as well as expensive molecular methods.Investigation of tryptophan fluorometry have show promise for predicting E.coli density levels when adjusting for phosphorous in models. Tryptophan is an essential amino acids released from the protein enzyme trypsin during digestion. Proteins found in the cell walls of the micro-organisms have shown to fluoresce in the same region as the amino-acid, tryptophan , therefore tryptophan-like fluorescence could possibly be used as a measure of microbial health of water body. The fluorometer works by emitting light at one wavelength and detecting light emitted by the target molecule at another wavelength. Although 20 samples were used in the project, it has shown promise in predicting E.coli densities