This SBIR Phase I project will develop a method to detect Cryptosporidium oocysts at a level of 100 oocysts/L or lower, and to differentiate between viable and non-viable cysts. The team will use a prototype of a capillary-based immunosensor (AEGIS 1000 instrument) coupled with heat and lysis treatment to detect Cryptosporidium in water.
The broader/commercial impact of the project will be the commercialization of the prototype of capillary-based immunosensor, which has the potential to extend its application in the water industry for live waterborne pathogen detection. This will allow water utilities to promptly respond to and correct a microbial contamination event.
