Real-time PCR detection of Listeria monocytogenes using an integrated microfluidics platform

A miniaturized, fully automated, PCR-based detection system has been developed for the rapid detection of bacterial pathogens. Monolithic DNA purification/real-time PCR silicon chips were fabricated and tested for their ability to purify and detect the pathogeneic bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Using silica-coated microstructures, nucleic acids could be selectively bound, washed and eluted for subsequent real-time PCR. These microstructures were included in an integrated detection microchip containing two distinct regions, one for DNA purification and one for real-time PCR. Using an automated detection platform with integrated microprocessor, pumps, valves, thermocycler and fluorescence detection modules, microchips were used to purify and detect bacterial DNA by real-time PCR amplification using SYBR Green fluorescent dye. Between 10⁴ and 10⁷ L. monocytogenes cells could be detected using this system with an average turnaround time of 45 min.