PathSensors: Rapid detection of pathogens with bioluminescence
Using genetically engineered cells made from jellyfish that glow in the ocean, a new system can identify dangerous substances in aerosols.
Pathsensors, Inc. is an environmental testing company housed at the University of Maryland Biopark in Baltimore. The company specializes in developing tests to quickly find pathogens in the infectious disease and biodefense sectors.
Since 2007, the company has developed products for the U.S. Department of Defense and companies specializing in defense contracting. Pathsensors' other markets include building protection, mail room screenings, first responders, and food processing.
The BioFlash® system is based on the CANARY® (Cellular Analysis and Notification of Antigen Risks and Yields) technology. The CANARY® sensor, a diagnostic technology developed at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), gives the body's disease-fighting cells the ability to glow like jellyfish in the presence of contaminants.
BioFlash® delivers extremely rapid detection of pathogens at previously unseen levels of sensitivity and specificity.
