Detecting viral pathogens with human infection capacity in animal farms
Project FLUFET aims to develop a proof-of-concept prototype for a fully automated device that continuously detects viruses on animal farms using graphene field effect transistors and microfluidics. This highly sensitive system can rapidly identify known and unknown viruses, triggering alerts to prevent potential outbreaks. FLUFET would become the first automatic detection device capable of continuous operation. The device uses GFET-S20 and the mGFET series of products from the Graphenea graphene foundry.
It was found that 75% of emerging diseases are of zoonotic origin. Over 2 billion cases worldwide caused by zoonotic diseases were registered in 2023, resulting in 3 million deaths.
Farms are vessels for zoonosis due to a high density of animals that are genetically similar, and their constant interaction with humans. To prevent future crises, the EU has called for continuous monitoring for animal farms. Current methods of monitoring are not adequate, hence new methods will be essential to strengthen sanitary safety and prevent possible future outbreaks.
FLUFET would become the first automatic detection devices capable of continuous operation. Graphene can be functionalized with various biomolecules. This functionalization enables detection of viral pathogens. The goal is to be able to detect non-infectious viruses, as well as known and unknown infectious viruses. The sensor is an autonomous in situ detection system of emerging diseases.
On February 26 and 27, all project partners met for the first annual meeting in Madrid, to review key achievements and milestones, discuss challenges and lessons learned, and perform strategic planning for the next phase of the project.
The project is funded by the European Union (FLUFET, Project 101130125).
