Air Force researchers test device capable of detecting dangerous pathogens Published Oct. 17, 2017 By Shireen Bedi Air Force Surgeon General Public Affairs FALLS CHURCH, Va. -- Air Force Medical Service researchers at the 59th Medical Wing, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas are evaluating a new tool to help Airmen detect and identify pathogens in austere deployment locations. Researchers are testing a lightweight, hand-held device designed identify pathogens in real-time. Called Biomeme two3, the device is designed for use where the urgent need to identify dangerous pathogens may arise. The device works with an application installed on a mobile device to store, analyze, and display the data simply. This enables operators to transmit the data to locations where experts immediately see the results. While this technology is still in testing, Manuel Caballero, a molecular biologist and manager of the Air Force Center for Advanced Molecular Detection, said he hopes it will soon address many of the challenges of detecting dangerous pathogens on the battlefield. “Currently, detecting and identifying pathogens in an austere environment requires complicated sample preparation procedures and larger devices. This typically means having to send samples to laboratories in the US or elsewhere,” said Caballero. “At times, it can take up to a week to learn what the pathogen is and communicate an effective response to the front lines. With the Biomeme two3, an Airman can perform sample preparations right there, and have results in as little as an hour.” The device relies on a process called real-time polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, to test tiny samples suspected of carrying dangerous germs. Real-time PCR replicates a targeted part of genetic material, simultaneously generating a signal the machine can detect. Since the genetic material target for a given pathogen is specific for that pathogen, the technique lets the operator know if the suspect sample has the pathogen in question. The process takes about an hour. “Once the sample is prepared, it can be placed in the device and the combat medic just hits start,” explained Caballero. “This simplified process and device application allows for the quick turnaround of test results.” The ability to quickly detect a dangerous pathogen in real-time would allow medics to quickly respond to a threat. Identifying pathogens in the field could allow for containment much sooner and help medics to treat those who have been exposed much faster. An additional value of this new pathogen detection device is that it weighs just over a pound, which makes the device easier to transport. “We are always cautious about adding more equipment to a battlefield medic’s gear,” said Caballero. “Advancements in technology have made it easier for our medics to carry the necessary devices without having to add an extra 20 pounds.” This research is a collaborative effort between the 59th MDW and Biomeme, Inc. “Working with industry expands the resources our AFMS researchers have at their disposal,” said Caballero. “When a company is already working on a product line similar to our requirements, partnerships are an excellent avenue for us.” The PCR device is in the final stages of testing and evaluation. Researchers at the Air Force Center for Advanced Molecular Detection continue to refine the device, assessing its performance, and comparing it to the capabilities of fixed laboratory PCR machines. Caballero hopes a production model will emerge in the near future. “By next year, a diagnostic version should receive approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration,” said Caballero. “After that, we hope to work with similar devices expanding capabilities to detect more pathogens at the same time.”