Microbial biofilms can have long-term harmful effects on human health, especially regarding biofilm-triggered infectious diseases. Since the biofilm is formed (i.e., on wound scabs), it becomes more resistant to antibiotics and thus can perpetuate serious illnesses, in most severe cases causing sepsis. Consequently, assessment of biofilm formation using efficient diagnostic tools, i.e., wireless biofilm biosensors, is vital for preventing virulent infections.
This PhD research project proposes a new approach for biofilm monitoring capabilities by using radio-frequency identification system (RFID), SERS, and electrochemical analysis methods. Incorporating silver NPs as a part of the radio frequency (RF) tag antenna enables the realization of wireless sensing of microbial biofilms. Using redox mediators, such as vitamins B2 and K3, allows us to predict the earlier detection of their planktonic or biofilm forms, which is crucial in clinical settings. When microbe-mediated electron transfer reactions occur at bioanodes, they reduce AgCl into Ag NPs. If these reactions occur at the biosensor RF tag antenna, it strongly changes the impedance of the tag, which is wirelessly monitored by a radio frequency identification reader. In addition, the biofilm monitoring capabilities of detecting their metabolites using electrochemical analysis and SERS will be assessed.