Non-contact characterization of bacteria by time-resolved fluorescence

Abstract

Accurate real-time methods for the detection of pathogenic microorganisms in the agri-food industry would represent an improvement over standard methods of analysis. We are currently developing a non-contact, scanning optical system for the detection of bacteria on meat surfaces based on fluorescence lifetime and intensity measurements. The system detects autofluorescent light emitted by the naturally occurring fluorophores in bacteria. Potential expected advantages of this system include accurate and efficient 2D real-time mapping of bacterial contamination of surfaces, and elimination of sample-to-sample cross-contamination. Furthermore, as the technique only requires minimal sample preparation and handling, the chemical properties of the specimen are preserved. This article presents the preliminary results obtained from a time-resolved fluorescence imaging system for the characterization of a non-pathogenic gram-negative bacteria, <i>Pseudomonas fluorescens</i>. Additionally we present a particular application of the system of interest to the agri-food industry, demonstrating its potential as a real-time macroscopic imaging system for mapping bacterial contamination on meat surfaces. Initial results indicate that the combination of fluorescence lifetime and intensity measurements provides a means for characterizing biological media and for detecting microorganisms on surfaces.