A Highly Selective, Low Power, Wireless, Immunoassay Based Optical Sensor for Detection of Water-born Pathogens.

There exists a need for near-real time detection and location of small quantities of waterborne biological agents by the warfighter. Since surface water is the primary water source for field soldiers, there is a critical need to determine the extent of potability. The objective of the proposed work is to design and build a small, low cost, highly selective, immunoassay based optical sensor/communication module that can be taken into the field by soldiers to wirelessly monitor streams and effluents for the detection of biological agents. This (Module) will include signal-conditioning circuitry and a radio frequency (RF) transmitter subsection. The signal conditioning subsection will process the raw signals from the sensor subsection and the RF section will transmit a device ID number together with an alarm indication. A soldier, using a handheld reader developed for the purpose, will be able to determine if modules are within communication range and whether any indicate an alarm condition. Work will concentrate on defining: application requirements, optimum target proteins, antibodies, and probes, the support/antibody preparation (membrane) techniques, the optimum packaging/integration strategy, and the means of signal dispersal, communication, and recognition. The work will be performed through a partnership between Sporian Microsystems and Phase IV Engineering.