Coupling of a Fieldable Bioaerosol Sampler and Rapid Pathogen Detection Platform for Environmental Surveillance

DANIEL N. ACKERMAN, Jessica Ware, Braden Stump, Christopher J. Hogan, Dipanjan Pan, Ashley R. Ravnholdt, Elizabeth A. Klug, Danielle N. Rivera, Kevin K. Crown, Vicki Herrera, C.J. Woslager, Joshua L. Santarpia, University of Nebraska Medical Center

     Abstract Number: 616
     Working Group: Bioaerosols

Abstract
Environmental surveillance of aerosolized pathogens has predominately entailed a separation between sampling site and laboratory analysis. The impact of separation can vary depending on transport conditions, leading to potential sample loss. This study intends to bridge the gap by marrying an established aerosol sampler with a novel pathogen detection assay. Additionally, the incorporation of a virtual impactor concentrating the aerosol aims to increase the throughput of the system. The BioSpot-GEM collects the concentrated aerosol into a liquid form factor allowing for microfluidic delivery of sample to the detection assay. The microfluidic system refills the drained collection cup of the BioSpot-GEM to prepare for the subsequent sample. This cyclical feature allows for continuous bioaerosol surveillance for long-term sampling. Ultimately, this system seeks to accelerate detection response time for public health intervention.