Inscent Inc
Grant: $99,881 - National Science Foundation - Jul. 1, 2009
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Award Description: This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I Project concerns a novel, rapid and cost-effective detection system for fecal contamination in water supplies. The need for better water safety screening is exemplified by the outbreak of E. coli serotype O157:H7, a pathogen found in fecal matter, in September, 2006 that was traced to contamination of spinach in California. Food poisonings were noted in several states, necessitating responses from agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control to protect the public. Although existing methods can detect fecal contamination in water samples, improvements are needed in sensitivity, accuracy, and speed. This proposal describes the refinement of a novel sensor technology that uses insect chemosensory proteins (CSPs) as recognition elements for fast, sensitive biosensors. The primary objective for Phase I is to develop a CSP-based biosensor that can act with high specificity and sensitivity, allowing the rapid detection of low level E. coli or fecal contamination in water supplies. The biosensor utilizes a novel implementation of lateral flow technology employing an insect chemosensory protein to detect very low levels of fecal contamination in water samples and can be used at home or in industry.
Project Description: See Award Description
Jobs Summary: Five Senior Scientists, one Senior Technician, one Undergraduate Researcher (Total jobs reported: 7)
Project Status: More than 50% Completed
This award's data was last updated on Jul. 1, 2009. Help expand these official descriptions using the wiki below.
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