Plasmon-assisted fast colorimetric detection of bacterial nucleases in food samples

We have developed a rapid, inexpensive, colorimetric and easy to use method able detect living bacterial pathogens of zoonotic foodborne interest. The is based on detection nucleases which cut selectively oligonucleotide probes that are designed in way induce aggregation stabilised gold-nanoparticles. present the standardization our secreted by Gram-positive ( Staphylococcus aureus ) Gram-negative Salmonella spp.) pathogens, not only five different matrixes food samples experimentally contaminated but also naturally foodstuffs. Our has shown sensitivity/specificity, detecting less than two hours supernatants from cell culture (1 CFU/mL) incubated for 15 h. detected naked-eye inspection, using minimal laboratory equipment. From broader perspective, besides applications foodstuff safety, we envision potential other viral environment, veterinary human health. • presence bacteria DNA-functionalised gold nanoparticles. A nuclease, fragmenting DNA bonds, prevents nanoparticles, giving red colour solution as positive result. assay detects S. , Typhimurium Enteritidis up 1 CFU/mL. hours.