Detection of Vibrio vulnificus in Seafood With a DNAzyme-Based Biosensor

Vibrio vulnificus is an important pathogenic bacterium that is often associated with seafood-borne illnesses. Therefore, to detect this pathogen in aquatic products, a DNAzyme-based fluorescent sensor was developed for the in vitro detection of V. vulnificus. After screening and mutation, a DNAzyme that we denominated RFD-VV-M2 exhibited the highest activity, specificity, and sensitivity. The limit of detection was 2.2 x 10(3) CFU/ml, and results could be obtained within 5-10 min. Our findings suggested that the target of DNAzyme RFD-VV-M2 was a protein with a molecular weight between 50 and 100 kDa. The proposed biosensor exhibited an excellent capacity to detect marine products contaminated with V. vulnificus. Therefore, our study established a rapid, simple, sensitive, and highly specific detection method for V. vulnificus in aquatic products.

Automated summary

A DNAzyme-based fluorescent sensor was developed for the detection of V. vulnificus in aquatic products, with a detection limit of 2.2 x 10(3) CFU/ml and results obtainable within 5-10 minutes. The DNAzyme exhibited high activity, specificity, and sensitivity.