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Posted: 9th May 2014

Mobile phone camera could be used to detect bacteria

Researchers say they can now locate potential sources of infection.

Scientists develop a new technique for locating infection source

Scientists have developed a new technique for locating sources of infection. Using fluorescent markers, they may even be able to detect cells using a mobile phone camera.

Quickly identifying the harmful bacteria responsible for a serious medical or dental conditions can be difficult and costly.

The research was a collaborative effort by the University of Nottingham and GSK Consumer Healthcare. Their initial focus was dental healthcare, finding ways to target bacteria that cause dental cavities and periodontal disease.

As the research progressed, however, GSK principle scientist David Churchley, said: "We saw that our research had broader implications and potential for a wider range of uses."

The research team say they can pinpoint the source of an infection by "hijacking" the processes of pathogens, revealing their location.

Fluorescent markers are used to tag these cells, allowing scientists to detect them using a mobile phone camera.

Professor Cameron Alexander, who led the research at the university's School of Pharmacy, said the technique could be used for "point-of-care diagnostics for pathogenic bacteria".

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal
Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here.

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