Pathogen Inactivation Techniques

Italian plant pathologists stopped olive disease using bacteriophages targeting pathogens. Xylella bacteria devastated Italy's olive groves—trees dried up, yields collapsed. Phage therapy pinpointed and attacked this bacteria, slowing disease spread in fields and starting recovery. 🌿🫒 How: bacteriophages are viruses that only infect bacteria. Researchers isolated Xylella-specific phages, then created a cocktail to cover multiple pathogen strains. Through sprays and trunk injections, phages reached xylem vessels where bacteria settle, then lysed the bacteria—without harming the tree. Impact: chemical bactericides damage the environment and kill beneficial microbes too. Phage therapy is a precision tool: targeted, biodegradable, and self-limiting. The olive oil economy depends on millions of livelihoods; rural community survival is linked to this tech. Closer: phages also evolve—just like bacteria. This "arms race" actually becomes a benefit because therapy can upgrade over time. Will the future of plant medicine be phages, not antibiotics? Source: University of Bari, Nature Plants 2024

Stopping the spread of viruses during surgeries using electric fields. Cardiff University. Published: 30 August 2023. Excerpt: New research by Cardiff University has highlighted how the use of electric fields, called electrostatic precipitation, provides an effective prevention of viral spread during surgeries. Hannah Preston, Cardiff University School of Medicine, said: “Although respiratory viruses can spread by physical contact, key transmission occurs via dispersion of aerosols from an infected individual - talking, breathing, coughing, and sneezing can all produce aerosols. The spread of aerosols can also happen during surgical procedures. “Mask wearing, personal protective equipment (PPE), social distancing and isolation of infected patients can help reduce the spread of infections, but does not directly destroy or remove the virus. Interventions such as air filters, ultraviolet light sterilization and aerosolized hydrogen peroxide sprays are commonly used to reduce the spread of viruses in hospitals, but they have limitations as well. “As #virus #transmission occurs most commonly by release of #aerosols from #infectious #patients, it would be beneficial to develop a method that efficiently captures and inactivates viral particles from aerosols in hospital environments. #Electrostatic #precipitation has been developed to be used during #keyhole #surgeries – it uses an electric field to collect particles out of aerosolized dispersion and inactivate the viruses. #Note: Researchers created a model that was representative of key-hole surgery and aerosolized viruses, exposing the model to electrostatic precipitation. The electrostatic precipitation was tested on both #enveloped #viruses (such as #SARSCoV2 that causes Covid-19) and #nonenveloped viruses (such as #adenovirus or #norovirus). The scientists measured the presence and activity of viruses after exposure to electrostatic precipitation, finding electrostatic precipitation #inactivated #viruses with up to #99% efficiency. Publication: Science Direct | iScience Volume 26, Issue 9, 15 September 2023, 107567 Capture and inactivation of viral particles from bioaerosols by electrostatic precipitation. https://lnkd.in/emQXghuq https://lnkd.in/eQsifcGa

𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 & 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔₀ 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗽𝘁 In sterile processing, disinfection is a measurable process, not guesswork. The international reference for this is the A₀ concept (EN ISO 15883), which defines the relationship between time + temperature in thermal disinfection. 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗔₀? A₀ = cumulative effect of heat on microorganisms. Higher A₀ → stronger microbial inactivation. 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘀 A₀ = 600 → minimum required for surgical instruments (in some countries). A₀ = 3000 → stricter requirement in others. 𝗘𝘅𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 To achieve these A₀ values with thermal disinfection: At 90 °C → A₀=300: 30s | A₀=600: 60s | A₀=3000: 300s At 85 °C → A₀=300: 95s | A₀=600: 190s | A₀=3000: 948s At 80 °C → A₀=300: 300s | A₀=600: 600s | A₀=3000: 3000s (EN ISO 15883 reference values) 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻? Uses Washer-Disinfector (WD) – no chemical disinfectants needed Works at 80–93 °C for heat-stable instruments Ensures standardized, reproducible efficacy Final rinse with fully demineralized water protects instruments 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 Thermal disinfection in a Washer-Disinfector is the state-of-the-art method for surgical instruments. Always: Confirm instrument IFU for heat stability Document achieved A₀ values for compliance & audits Align with EN ISO 15883 standards #SterileProcessing #CSSD #Disinfection #AAMI #ISO15883 #InfectionControl #PatientSafety #HSPA #CRCST #CBSPD #HealthcareQuality

Hand-Cranked Nanotech Device Purifies Water in Seconds—No Electricity Required Introduction A research team led by Xu Deng at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China has unveiled a hand-powered water disinfection device that kills pathogens in seconds using nanoparticles. Designed for disaster zones and off-grid communities, the simple, low-cost system could revolutionize access to safe drinking water where electricity and sunlight are scarce. How It Works Nanoparticle Chemistry: The jar-like device contains spherical silica nanoparticles coated with amine groups (positively charged) and gold nanoparticles (negatively charged). When the handle is cranked, gentle water shear activates these particles, creating reactive oxygen species (ROS) that destroy microbial membranes. Self-Separating System: After stirring, the nanoparticles naturally settle out, allowing users to draw clean, disinfected water directly from the outlet. The same batch of particles can be reused repeatedly, maintaining efficacy across multiple cycles. Performance and Results Tests against 16 major pathogens showed exceptional efficacy: 99.9999% reduction of E. coli in 15 seconds at 50°C. 99.9999% reduction of Vibrio cholerae in 1 minute. Over 95% inactivation of all tested microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Once charged, the device offers hours of protection against recontamination. The small amount of gold used makes production cost-effective, with the main expense coming from silica and the plastic housing. Expert Reactions Chiara Neto of the University of Sydney praised the innovation: “It’s very clever, fantastic work—the science and application are impressive.” The researchers acknowledge that the device is still at the proof-of-concept stage, with further work needed to determine its lifespan and total water capacity. Why It Matters This breakthrough combines mechanical simplicity with cutting-edge nanotechnology, offering a portable and sustainable method for rapid water sterilization. In humanitarian crises, remote villages, or regions without power, the device could become a life-saving tool for preventing cholera, dysentery, and other waterborne diseases. Its reusable nature and low material cost make it especially promising for global public health and emergency relief efforts. I share daily insights with 28,000+ followers and 10,000+ professional contacts across defense, tech, and policy. If this topic resonates, I invite you to connect and continue the conversation. Keith King https://lnkd.in/gHPvUttw

"Targeting the bubble-like membrane of a virus, rather than its proteins, could lead to a new generation of antivirals, researchers report. "Antiviral therapies are notoriously difficult to develop, as viruses can quickly mutate to become resistant to drugs. But what if a new generation of antivirals ignores the fast-mutating proteins on the surface of viruses and instead disrupts their protective layers? “We found an Achilles heel of many viruses: their bubble-like membranes. Exploiting this vulnerability and disrupting the membrane is a promising mechanism of action for developing new antivirals,” says Kent Kirshenbaum, professor of chemistry at New York University and senior author of the study in the journal ACS Infectious Diseases. "In the study, the researchers show how a group of new molecules inspired by our own immune system inactivates several viruses, including Zika and chikungunya. The approach may not only lead to drugs that can be used against many viruses, but could also help overcome antiviral resistance." #antiviral

Qualification for Depyrogenation Tunnel The working principle of depyrogenation tunnel involves the use of high Temperature dry heat to remove pyrogens from glassware, containers used in pharmaceutical manufacturing. ✍️Parts of the depyrogenation tunnel: 1.Loading area 2.Pre-heating zone 3. heating zone 4.Cooling zone 5.Conveyor belt 5.Airflow system 6.Control system: This is programmable logic controller (PLC) that regulates the temperature, conveyor belt speed, and other parameters of the depyrogenation process. 7.Safety features: Interlocks, alarms, and emergency stop buttons are installed to ensure the safety of operators and prevent equipment damage. ✍️Validation of the depyrogenation process: This process involves testing and monitoring the effectiveness of the tunnel in removing or inactivating endotoxins. This includes the use of biological indicators, such as bacterial endotoxin testing, to ensure that the process meets regulatory requirements. Use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters: HEPA filters are used in depyrogenation tunnels to remove airborne particles, including endotoxins, from the air. ✍️ Performance Qualification studies shall be carried out to ensure the equipment for proper operation and its ability to sterilize and depyrogenate the washed vials at the set parameters it's includes: ·  Air Velocity measurement. ·  HEPA FILTER Integrity test by PAO Aerosol test. ·  Air flow pattern test. ·  Non-viable airborne particle count test. ·  Heat Distribution studies. ·  Heat Penetration studies. ·  Endotoxin Challenge study. Validation Point Description: 1.Heat Distribution 2.Temperature Uniformity 3.Cycle Time Establishing the appropriate cycle time to achieve the desired level of pyrogen removal or inactivation. 4.Conveyor Belt Speed 5.Biological Indicators Using biological indicators, such as bacterial endotoxin testing, to confirm the effectiveness of the depyrogenation process. How does a depyrogenation tunnel work? A depyrogenation tunnel works by exposing the equipment to high temperatures for a specific period of time, usually above 250°C, to destroy or inactivate pyrogens. What are pyrogens? Pyrogens are substances that can cause fever when introduced into the body. They can be found in various sources such as bacteria, bacterial endotoxins, and other microbial contaminants. What are endotoxins? Endotoxins are a type of pyrogen that are produced by Gram-negative bacteria and can cause fever and other adverse reactions in patients if present in pharmaceutical products. What is the purpose of the cooling zone in a depyrogenation tunnel? The purpose of the cooling zone in a depyrogenation tunnel is to cool down the equipment to a safe temperature before being unloaded. #pharmaceuticalindustry #asepticprocessing

Harnessing Cold Plasma Technology for Enhanced Food Safety and Preservation Cold plasma technology is an innovative and promising method gaining traction in the food industry for its ability to enhance food safety and preservation. At its core, cold plasma is a partially ionized gas that contains free electrons, ions, and neutral particles. This state of matter can be generated at low temperatures, making it suitable for food applications without compromising the quality of the product. The scientific mechanism behind cold plasma involves a series of complex interactions between the gas and the energy source used to create the plasma state. Typically, air or inert gases like argon or nitrogen are ionized through methods such as dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) or atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs). These methods apply a high-voltage electric field to the gas, resulting in the formation of plasma without generating excessive heat. Once generated, the cold plasma contains a variety of reactive species, including electrons, ions, and neutral atoms or molecules. The free electrons in the plasma carry enough energy to break chemical bonds in the surrounding gas, leading to the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). These species are highly reactive and can interact with microbial cells upon contact. When cold plasma is applied to food surfaces, these reactive species penetrate the outer membrane of microorganisms. The oxidative stress created by the ROS and RNS damages essential cellular components, such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. For instance, the oxidation of lipids disrupts the integrity of the cell membrane, causing leakage of vital cellular contents. Simultaneously, damage to proteins and nucleic acids inhibits the microorganisms' metabolic activities and replication processes, ultimately leading to cell death. In addition to direct microbial inactivation, cold plasma technology can also induce changes in the food matrix itself. It can enhance the surface properties of fruits and vegetables, making them less susceptible to microbial colonization. Furthermore, by producing ozone, cold plasma can also enhance the antibacterial properties of packaging materials, providing an additional layer of protection for food products. Practically, cold plasma technology has several applications in the food industry. It is used for sanitizing surfaces, equipment, and packaging materials, helping to reduce the risk of cross-contamination. In addition, cold plasma can be employed for extending the shelf life of perishable goods by reducing microbial loads without the need for chemical preservatives or high temperatures. It has shown effectiveness in treating fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and meats, preserving their quality while minimizing spoilage. #FoodSafety #ColdPlasma #FoodPreservation #SustainableFood #FoodScience #FoodProcessing #MicrobialInactivation #FoodTechnology

Invisible to the naked eye, UVC light (typically administered at wavelengths of 254nm) is widely used to kill pathogens in a variety of settings from hospitals to laboratories, water treatment facilities and airplanes. However, it is harmful to skin and eyes, so can only be used when people aren’t present or inside closed systems such as water pipes or air ducts. Far-UVC, by contrast, also rapidly inactivates viruses, bacteria, fungi, and mold spores, claims North Carolina-based startup Uviquity, but has a shorter wavelength—200-230 nm—that cannot penetrate the superficial layer of the eye or the protective outer layer of the skin, making it a safer option for continuous disinfection around people. The challenge, however, is the delivery system. Currently, says CEO Scott Burroughs, far-UVC systems have relied on bulky gas-discharge lamps (excimer bulbs) with limited scalability and reliability, low wattage and a relatively short lifespan. Uviquity wants to solve these problems and democratize far-UVC with tiny solid-state semiconductor light sources that it claims serve as a far more compact, energy-efficient, and durable solution—a major breakthrough in the photonics space, says Burroughs. “We’re talking about chips that can be integrated into everything from light fixtures to air handling systems, food packaging and processing equipment, crop protection systems, water purification systems, and consumer appliances.” [Disclosure: AgFunderNews’ parent company AgFunder is an investor in Uviquity, which has just raised a $6.6m seed round led by Emerald Development Managers LP with participation from AgFunder and filtration specialist MANN+HUMMEL]. #foodtech #agtech #photonics #farUVC Scott Burroughs Russell Kanjorski

Dual wavelengths of light shown to be effective against antibiotic-resistant bacterium. Scientists have combined two light wavelengths to deactivate a bacterium that is invulnerable to some of the world's most widely used antibiotics, giving hope that the regime could be adapted as a potential disinfectant treatment. Under the guidance of project leader Dr. Gale Brightwell, scientists at New Zealand's AgResearch demonstrated the novel antimicrobial efficiency of a combination of two light wavelengths against a 'superbug' known as antibiotic-resistant extended-spectrum beta-lactamase E. coli. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global threat of increasing concern to human and animal health, with 10M deaths due to AMR forecast to occur every year after 2050. There is now a critical need to develop safe and effective antimicrobial technologies that do not result in new and emerging resistance, corresponding author Amanda Gardner explained. https://lnkd.in/gA2GPNcH