How can you use biosensors to detect infectious diseases in livestock?

Biosensors offer a transformative approach to early detection of infectious diseases in livestock (specific pathogens or biomarkers), facilitating timely intervention. Portable devices allow for on-site, point-of-care testing, reducing dependency on traditional laboratories and enabling quick decision-making. Wireless connectivity allows for remote data transmission and centralized monitoring, especially valuable in large-scale livestock operations, making it a cost-effective alternative. Incorporating biosensor technology into educational programs raises awareness about early disease detection and biosecurity measures,fostering proactive disease management strategies empower veterinarians and farmers to enhance disease surveillance.

Biosensors utilize different types of bioreceptors such as antibodies, enzymes, nucleic acids, or even whole cells. Each has a unique binding affinity for specific targets, known as analytes. For example, antibodies in a biosensor are excellent for disease detection due to their high specificity to antigens. The transducer, upon interaction with the analyte-bound bioreceptor, generates a physical signal. This conversion can be based on various principles, including electrochemical (measuring changes in current or voltage), optical (changes in light absorption or fluorescence), or piezoelectric (changes in oscillation frequency) One of the key strengths of biosensors is their high sensitivity and specificity.

Electrochemical Biosensors are sensors detect the changes in current or potential due to the biochemical reaction at the electrode surface. They are highly sensitive and can provide quantitative results. Adapted for the detection of specific pathogens or biomarkers in livestock diseases. For instance, they can be used to detect foot-and-mouth disease by ident specific antigens or antibodies in blood samples. Optical Biosensors rely on optical measurements like absorbance, fluorescence, or luminescence changes when the target analyte binds to the bioreceptor. Applications in Livestock: They are used for rapid diagnosis of diseases like bovine tuberculosis or brucellosis by detecting specific DNA sequences or proteins in biological samples.

The interesting part is what to do with the data in day to day work. The advantages are obvious but the reality of using data from different sources and making relevant decisions from them will make the difference. The farms even the top ones have already lots of data to manage and we need to find a way combining all the data into one dashboard.

The nature of sample collection and preparation is crucial. For example, in livestock, samples like blood, saliva, or milk each have different components that might interfere with biosensor readings. Effective sample preparation methods that minimize interference while retaining the target analyte's integrity are vital. The ability of a biosensor to detect low concentrations of pathogens (sensitivity) and to distinguish between the target pathogen and other substances (specificity) is critical, especially for early disease detection and preventing false positives. The practicality of biosensors in field conditions is essential. They should be robust, portable, and easy to use by personnel without specialized training.