Biomaterial Sensor Can Detect Viruses and Bacteria

According to a report published in the New Mexico Daily Lobo late last year, scientists at the University of New Mexico have designed a sensor that will identify biological material used to manufacture weapons.

Project leader, Richard Larson, stated that the device would help authorities study unidentified biomaterial and tell if it could be dangerous. The research was funded by the Defense Intelligence Agency grant  in 2005. The product is adaptable to suit varying fields. It has also been used to identify viruses and bacteria in the medical field and in various consumer applications. It deploys molecules to attract a virus or bacteria. Another device issues a sound wave when it identifies specific materials.

Project manager at Sandia National Laboratories, Steve Casalnouvo, claimed it could enhance diagnostics, but that it has not yet been determined whether it could reduce patient cost on diagnostics or not. It will however definitely minimize the time needed to conduct lab tests by helping the physician to carry out the testing procedures right there in his clinic.