A magneto-DNA nanoparticle system for the rapid and sensitive diagnosis of enteric fever

Dr. Richelle C. Charles and colleagues describe a novel assay designed to detect amplified Salmonella nucleic acid (mRNA) using magneto-DNA probes and a miniaturized nuclear magnetic resonance device. A major obstacle for typhoid control and prevention is the lack of an optimal assay for diagnosing patients with enteric fever. The results of this work suggest that a magneto-DNA nanoparticle system, with an assay time from blood collection of 3.5 hours, may be a promising platform for the rapid and culture-free diagnosis of enteric fever and non-typhoidal Salmonella bacteremia. Park KS, et al, Scientific Reports, online September 8, 2016.