Surface Decontamination Using Electromagnetic Field/Laser Emitters

The proposed project will develop the scientific basis for a sensing and decontamination system capable of detecting and destroying chemical and biological warfare agents (CBWAs). The system would incorporate sensors that could be contained in units whichwould passively interact with the environment. Alternatively, the sensors could be sprayed on surfaces of sensitive equipment, clothing and even skin without damaging the surfaces. The sprayed version of these sensors would be colorless or subdued in coloruntil examined with an activator light source. After the photo-activation of the sensor redox reaction, either an electromagnetic field (EMF) and/or a laser would be used to destroy the CBWA.The proposed concept uses DNA aptamers for CBWA recognition, diazoluminomelanin (DALM) as the free radical label and DNA substrate, electron spin resonance (ESR) for signal detection, advanced signal processing for optimal pattern recognition andrejection, and either microwave or laser irradiation for destruction. The DNA grid is based on the SELEX process that allows binding of known and unknown CBWAs (e.g., genetic recombinant), the latter by binding to components that are common to known CBWAs.A spin-off project is that the tightly bound DNA aptamer sequences could be eluted, amplified, and purified for the production of neutralizing agents. Phases I - III would be conducted within a partnership including Conceptual MindWorks, Inc., PacificNorthwest National Laboratory, Battelle Memorial Institute, McKesson HBOC Clinical and Biological Services, Litton TASC, and Honeywell Corporation.Fast detection and destruction of CBWAs would save lives by providing time to adopt protective measures. Commercially, medical personnel would use biosensors to rapidly detect and destroy viral, fungal, and bacterial organisms infecting open wounds, suchas severe burns, without producing further trauma. Immediate decontamination of wounds would reduce complications from surgery resulting from secondary infection. Industrial hygienists would use biosensors to limit exposure to harmful organisms, such asbiological toxins in food preparation areas (e.g., E. coli O157:H7).