Myeloperoxidase-based in-vitro test strip sensor for early detection of wound infections at the patient´s bedside

Abstract

Early and precise identification of wound infection is still challenging to prevent and mitigate the onset of upcoming infections. Recently we have developed a sensor system based on the neutrophil-derived enzyme myeloperoxidase (MPO) and applied flow-based fluidics to allow the reliable detection of wound infection at a very early stage. However, still no easily applicable devices with low instrumental effort to enable early and accurate detection of wound infections at the patient´s bedside are available. We aimed to advance this preceding MPO- and flow-based sensor into an MPO-based in-vitro test strip sensor applying drop-based fluidics to be used at the patient´s bedside. Further, we aimed to implement a proof-of-concept one-point-calibration approach to improve the precision of the test strip sensor and to reduce heterogeneities deriving from sensor production. To change the fluidic concept of the preceding sensor system from flow-based to drop-based the composition of the functionalization solution was adapted. Further, two proof-of-concept one-point-calibration approaches were implemented and compared regarding sensor performance and applicability. Results showed a good correlation between sensor current and MPO concentration which proved the ability of the novel in-vitro test strip sensor to reliably detect wound infection at an early stage. Further, two proof-of-concept one-point-calibration approaches were successfully implemented, and one of these two was favored over the other due to its easier handling properties. This easily applicable in-vitro test strip sensor for early and accurate detection of wound infection at the bedside holds great promise to significantly improve wound management and to promote effective, rapid point-of-care diagnostics.