Anthrax detector

Researchers in Switzerland have developed a detector for deadly anthrax spores based on a monoclonal antibody that recognises a specific sugar on the bacterium.¹ This new test promises to be just as accurate but far simpler to do than current detection methods. 

Spores of the dreaded Bacillus anthracis have already been used as a bioweapon against civilians. Once inhaled, the anthrax pathogen almost always leads to death if the victims are not treated within 24-48 hours. There are several diagnostic tests for anthrax but they are time-consuming. According to Peter Seeberger of the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zürich, and colleagues at the Swiss Tropical Institute, and the University of Bern, also in Switzerland, in the event of a bioweapon attack, a fast and reliable test is essential if lives are to be saved.