Nanobiosensor may hold key to early ASF detection

LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte, Philippines — A DNA-based nanobiosensor detection system for food- and water-borne pathogens may help identify the presence of the African swine fever (ASF) virus in several hours.

The nanobiosensor technology was exhibited here during the Regional Science and Technology Week at the Centennial Arena yesterday, which continues until Friday.

Science and Technology Secretary Fortunato dela Peña said at a press conference yesterday that he is encouraging the developer of the technology to pursue it for the early detection of ASF virus.

The technology was developed by the University of the Philippines-Los Baños (UPLB) in collaboration with the Michigan State University and the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging technology, Research and Development (PCIEERD) of the Department of Science and Technology.

Dela Peña said that blood samples for laboratory confirmation for ASF have to be brought to the United Kingdom, while the exhibitor of the nonobiosensor for pathogens said these can be done faster within the confines of the animal pens and the results can be had within five to six hours.

The exhibitor said that a little modification of the technology is needed for it to be used in testing for the presence of ASF.

The exhibitor said the technology, developed by Francisco Elegado of UPLB and Russell Pili of PCIEERD, offers a quick and easy way to sense or detect the presence of harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella enterica in food, water or animal feeds.