Detecta: Integrated System for Molecular Detection of Biological Contaminants in Consumer Goods and Biotechnological Products

• Grant number: 25/05884-1
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: January 01, 2026
• End date: December 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Microbiology - Applied Microbiology
• Principal Investigator: Lucas Gabriel Ribeiro
• Grantee: Lucas Gabriel Ribeiro
• Associated researchers: Amanda Montezano Cintra ; Jéssica Silvino Valente

Abstract

The Detecta project proposes the development of an integrated system for microbiological control of pharmaceutical, biotechnological, and cosmetic products, with a focus on automation, speed, and analytical sensitivity. The core innovation lies in a modular device - DetectaPRO - paired with molecular biology kits based on multiplex PCR and reverse hybridization, featuring colorimetric readout.The system aims to replace traditional microbiological culture methods, which require long incubation times, high logistical costs, and multiple assays for different microorganism classes (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and mycoplasmas). Currently, conventional assays can take up to 30 days to release an industrial batch and are often outsourced to specialized laboratories with complex infrastructure.Detecta will offer a unified solution, capable of simultaneously detecting major microbiological contaminants within 8 hours, through a simplified workflow compatible with various sample types and matrices. The system will consist of three main modules:(i) a high-precision Peltier block thermocycler,(ii) a compartment for flow chip application (nitrocellulose membrane with immobilized probes), and(iii) an optical module with a CMOS camera for colorimetric detection and result digitization.Designed for direct application in regulated sectors with high sanitary demands, Detecta aims to reduce batch release times, bring microbiological control in-house, and expand national analytical capacity. The project is currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3, with individual molecular methods already validated, and will progress to TRL 8 by the end of the development phase, delivering a fully functional and validated system.This innovation represents a technically feasible, regulatory-compliant, and commercially scalable solution with the potential for significant impact across Brazil's healthcare production chain. (AU)