Swinburne develops CD analysis method to aid bioterrorism fight

Melbourne's Swinburne University of Technology has developed a rapid method for the analysis of microorganisms on CD or DVD which could be used to detect bioterror agents.

The work is being undertaken by members of Swinburne's faculty of life and social sciences lead by chancellery research fellow Dr Cameron Jones.

"Our purpose was to develop a rapid, portable lab or field testing unit that uses laser spectroscopy to differentiate live microorganisms from harmless powers," said Jones.

"A CD or DVD is used as a measurement device which translates optical interference patterns into numeric signatures in under a minute.

"Microorganisms have a unique chemical composition which means they can be distinguished from each other based on analysis of laser light scattering through the biomass. Unique software from Swinburne is used to identify what micro-organisms have been detected."

The same technology has previously been used to identify inner ear infections in children.

"We have mapped a range of harmless substances such as talcum, baking soda and flour which are easy to distinguish from members of the bacillus genus. The next stage is to partner with other groups or agencies that have access to highly sensitive micro-organisms or chemical agents that are known bio-warfare targets -- Swinburne University has access to class one pathogens but we would like to work with more dangerous pathogens," he said.

Dr Jones presented parts of this research with Sam Thigpen at the Australian Society for Microbiology 2005 National Conference in Canberra this week.