Early detection of skin wound infections is challenging, as current diagnostic methods are slow, invasive, or complex. To address this, Dr. Song’s team at the University of Manitoba developed a nanofiber biosensor that employs hemicyanine dye (HCy). This biosensor changes color (yellow to green) in response to bacterial lipase—an enzyme bacteria secrete during infection—providing real-time visual monitoring for infections.

My contribution involved testing the biosensor's compatibility with 7 foam dressings and its effectiveness against 3 bacterial strains (P. aeruginosa, E. coli, MRSA) for clinical use.

Findings: Curafoam, Hydrofera, Optifoam Basic, and Quick were most compatible. Dressing thickness and fluid permeability can impact biosensor's performance across various wound exudate volumes.

See research paper.