Tools for Detecting Microbial Signatures
Outcome/Accomplishment
Researchers at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded Precision Microbiome (NSF PreMiEr) Engineering Research Center (ERC) have developed tools for assessing fungal and bacterial signatures in homes and hospitals. NSF PreMiEr is based at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.
Impact/Benefits
NSF PreMiEr researchers leverage diagnostic tools and interdisciplinary engineering approaches in genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic technologies to better study microbial “dark matter.” This work lies at the intersections of both health and the built environment. Advanced microbiome technologies help prevent infectious agents’ colonization in interior spaces, while also promoting the existence of more beneficial microorganisms. As such, the Center’s techniques lead to breakthroughs in enabling safe indoor spaces for everyone with impacts to the design, construction and operation of man-made structures and buildings.
Explanation/Background
Devices previously applied in the food safety industry are being adapted to the built environment to quantify fungal mold in homes. For example, a lab-on-a-robot is being optimized to discern specific fungal molds based on their chemical signatures.
Location
Durham, North CarolinaStart Year
Biotechnology and Healthcare
Biotechnology and Healthcare
Lead Institution
Core Partners
Fact Sheet
Outcome/Accomplishment
Researchers at the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF)-funded Precision Microbiome (NSF PreMiEr) Engineering Research Center (ERC) have developed tools for assessing fungal and bacterial signatures in homes and hospitals. NSF PreMiEr is based at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.
Location
Durham, North CarolinaStart Year
Biotechnology and Healthcare
Biotechnology and Healthcare
Lead Institution
Core Partners
Fact Sheet
Impact/benefits
NSF PreMiEr researchers leverage diagnostic tools and interdisciplinary engineering approaches in genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic technologies to better study microbial “dark matter.” This work lies at the intersections of both health and the built environment. Advanced microbiome technologies help prevent infectious agents’ colonization in interior spaces, while also promoting the existence of more beneficial microorganisms. As such, the Center’s techniques lead to breakthroughs in enabling safe indoor spaces for everyone with impacts to the design, construction and operation of man-made structures and buildings.
Explanation/Background
Devices previously applied in the food safety industry are being adapted to the built environment to quantify fungal mold in homes. For example, a lab-on-a-robot is being optimized to discern specific fungal molds based on their chemical signatures.