"BioMark" Bioluminescense Spray detects various pathogens

AgroMicron, Ltd has designed a detection spray that spots dangerous contamination in food and water.

If various meats, water, or other freshly transported perishables were to be contaminated with microbes then large numbers of people could be struck down with debilitating illness. The problem with many current tests is that they can take days to carry out, as sufficient numbers of bacteria have to be cultured to provide a positive result. AgroMicron, Ltd completed work with a team of researchers from Taiwan and the United States, with support from the US Technology Transfer Act, to create a nano-scale test which not only provide an instant verdict, but also be easy for public to use.

We use a small, luminescent protein molecule which has been modified so that it attaches itself to the surface of the target bacterium. This works in a similar fashion to an immune system antibody, designed to lock on to a particular feature on the "coat" of the microbe. In this case the higher the number of connections between bacteria and molecules, the more intense the glow produced. AgroMicron, Ltd. is currently marketing this product under the name of 'BioMark'.

Our goal is once again a simple approach to a complex problem with our Rapid Early Detection (RED) system. BioMark is packaged in 5 and 20 gallon canisters with an easy spray application device. BioMark is being be sold throughout the food industry and can be widely used in ocean freight containerized shipping of perishable goods. If a container is opened and a ominous glow emanates from the food source once it has been exposed to the spray, then a quarantine can be deployed immediately.