Collaborative Research: The Environmental Sample Processor (ESP): A Device for Detecting Microorganisms In Situ Using Molecular Probe Technology

该奖项提供资金，以加强正在进行的环境样品处理器（ESP）仪器开发计划。（ESP）是一种新型仪器，可自动收集离散水样，浓缩微生物，并自动应用DNA（或其他）分子探针，以识别和定量原位捕获的特定物种。该仪器将基于DNA探针阵列的分析结果真实的实时传输到基于海岸的位置，以进行处理、解释和传播。此外，ESP还可将离散样本存档，用于核酸、显微镜和毒素分析，以验证来自探针阵列的真实的实时数据，并促进实验室中基于发现的分析。在这个为期三年的项目中，PI建议：1）构建第二代互联网可访问的ESP（2G ESP）; 2）改进ESP中用于检测特定物种的DNA探针阵列; 3）开发适用于ESP的实时毒素检测技术;以及4）在加州蒙特雷湾进行2G ESP的现场测试。重点是查明造成广泛经济关切和/或已知对人类和野生动物健康产生负面影响的具体滋扰、有害或有毒藻类物种。

This award provides funds to enhance the on-going Environmental Sample Processor (ESP) instrument development program. The (ESP) is a novel instrument that collects discrete water samples autonomously, concentrates microorganisms and automates application of DNA (or other) molecular probes to enable identification and quantification of particular species captured in situ, subsurface. The instrument transmits results of DNA probe array based assays in real- time to a shore based location for processing, interpretation and dissemination. In addition, the ESP archives discrete samples for nucleic acid, microscopic and toxin analyses for verifying real- time data from the probe arrays as well as facilitating discovery based analyses in the laboratory. In this three year project, the PI's propose to: 1) construct a second generation, internet- accessible ESP (2G ESP); 2) refine DNA probe arrays used in the ESP for detecting specific species; 3) develop toxin detection techniques that are applicable for use on the ESP in real-time; and 4) conduct field tests of the 2G ESP in Monterey Bay, California. Identification of specific nuisance, harmful or toxic algal species that pose widespread economic concerns and/or are known to negatively impact the health of humans and wildlife is emphasized.