Development of a fiber optic nanobiosensor using upconversion nanoparticles UCNPs to detect E. coli bacteria as a portable, fast-response and costeffective alternative to traditional methods

• Grant number: 23/05092-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Start date: November 01, 2023
• End date: October 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Inorganic Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Sidney José Lima Ribeiro
• Grantee: Beatriz Bianca Schulz Ramin
• Supervisor: Younes Messaddeq
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Université Laval, Canada
• Associated to the scholarship: 20/14009-3 - Development of smart food packaging for bacterial sensing using upconverting nanoparticles and silver nanowires, BP.DR

Abstract

Foodborne illnesses caused by pathogenic bacteria are a major public health concern. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is one of the most common foodborne pathogens that can cause severe infections in humans. Existing detection methods, such as standard colony counting and culture methods, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), have several limitations, including the need for sophisticated equipment and skilled personnel, time-consuming procedures, and low sensitivity. To overcome these limitations, optical fibers will be prepared for E. coli detection, using up-conversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) conjugated to antibodies to increase the specificity and sensitivity of the sensor. The outcomes of this research project will contribute to the development of innovative technologies for preparing devices to be applied in the field of photonics, providing a response to the growing demands of modern society in terms of human health, food, and the environment. Additionally, the project involves the training of qualified human resources and necessary infrastructure in COPL, which are essential for the development and continuous absorption of new technologies. Overall, this project will contribute to strengthening collaboration between Canada and Brazil and to the advancement of research in the field of photonics. (AU)