New DNA Chip Technology Identifies Foodborne Pathogens In 90 Minutes

A new DNA chip card developed by Toshiba and the Kawasaki City Institute for Public Health is capable of simultaneously testing for 14 foodborne pathogens in 90 minutes, Toshiba has announced.

The DNA analyzer, known as Genelyzer II, can detect pathogens like salmonella, listeria, E. coli, and other sources of foodborne illness in significantly less time than standard testing, which typically takes up to five days, based on pathogen cultivation.

The Genelyzer II is also simpler to use than traditional DNA extraction protocols, as the device only requires a technician to provide nucleic acid from a stool sample for slide testing.

The slide is then registered with a barcode scan, and tested for 22 genes associated with pathogens, according to Food Navigator.

Toshiba will continue to develop the Genelyzer II technology to incorporate norovirus detection, as well as direct identification of contaminated food sources.