Tietze R, Hausen E, Heinen L, Schulte N, Lyer S, Alexiou C (2025)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2025
Book Volume: 781
Article Number: 152462
DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2025.152462
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (SPION)-based labeling is transforming microbial diagnostics by enabling the rapid, highly specific, and sensitive detection of pathogens in complex clinical and environmental samples. This technology improves the separation, tracking, and identification of microorganisms, especially in critical conditions like sepsis or foodborne infections, where prompt intervention is crucial. Coating magnetic particles with antibodies, antibiotics, lectins, or synthetic peptides allows for highly specific binding to microbial surfaces. This enables the concentration and detection of viable pathogens with minimal interference from the surrounding matrix. Magnetic labeling not only improves isolation and serves as a powerful analytical interface. Techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or magnetic particle spectroscopy can exploit the magnetic signal for non-invasive pathogen tracking and phenotyping, including the detection of virulence factors. Additionally, magnetic particles enhance traditional assays, such as PCR or 16 S rRNA sequencing by improving target concentration and the signal-to-noise ratio. Hyperspectral imaging can further distinguish between viable from dead cells based on their spectral signatures. This integrated approach is particularly valuable in time-sensitive clinical settings. For instance, magnetic separation allows for the quicker identification of pathogens responsible for sepsis, a condition where current diagnostics often yield from delayed or nonspecific results. Emerging methods like COMPASS (Critical Offset Magnetic Particle SpectroScopy) offer real-time analysis of pathogenicity factors, aiding in more targeted and effective therapies. Ultimately, the convergence of magnetic nanotechnology, molecular diagnostics, and advanced imaging holds great promise for next-generation microbial diagnostics, offering faster turnaround times, improved specificity, and the ability to distinguish live pathogens from residual genetic material–a key advance for precision medicine.
APA:
Tietze, R., Hausen, E., Heinen, L., Schulte, N., Lyer, S., & Alexiou, C. (2025). Search and detect pathogens using magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 781. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbrc.2025.152462
MLA:
Tietze, Rainer, et al. "Search and detect pathogens using magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles." Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 781 (2025).
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