Sensitive Electrochemical Detection of Soybean Rust Fungi Airborne Urediniospores
The agricultural sector faces significant challenges due to plant diseases, which can lead to substantial economic losses. Among these diseases, soybean rust, caused by the fungus Phakopsora pachyrhizi, poses a severe threat to soybean crops worldwide. Early detection of airborne urediniospores is crucial for effective disease management and prevention strategies. Traditional detection methods often lack the sensitivity and speed required for timely intervention, highlighting the need for innovative solutions in agricultural diagnostics.
Unmet Need
Current methods for detecting soybean rust spores are often labor-intensive, time-consuming, and may not provide the necessary sensitivity to detect low concentrations of spores in the environment. Farmers and agricultural professionals require a rapid, reliable, and sensitive detection system that can operate in real-time and under field conditions. The inability to quickly identify and respond to the presence of pathogens can lead to widespread crop damage, increased pesticide use, and ultimately, significant economic losses. Therefore, there is a pressing need for advanced technologies that can enhance the monitoring and management of plant diseases.
Our Technology
Our innovative technology leverages an aptamer-based electrochemical sensing platform designed for the rapid collection and sensitive detection of soybean rust fungi. This system utilizes a portable air sampler that captures airborne urediniospores and deposits them onto a carbon-based working electrode. The electrode’s high surface area and adsorption capacity facilitate the binding of specific aptamers to the spores, enabling precise detection through electrochemical signals. The technology is designed to be user-friendly, allowing for on-site testing with minimal preparation. With a detection limit of approximately 100-200 spores, this method significantly improves the ability to monitor and respond to soybean rust outbreaks effectively.
Market
The market for agricultural diagnostics is expanding rapidly, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable farming practices and the need for effective disease management solutions. Our technology addresses a critical gap in the market by providing a fast, sensitive, and portable detection system for soybean rust. This innovation not only benefits soybean farmers but also has the potential to be adapted for other crops and pathogens, broadening its applicability. As the agricultural sector continues to embrace precision farming and integrated pest management strategies, our technology positions itself as a vital tool for enhancing crop health and productivity, ultimately contributing to food security and economic stability in the agricultural industry.