On March 1st, at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Melania Mesas Gómez successfully defended her doctoral thesis, titled “In vitro diagnostic tests and biosensing devices for pathogenic bacteria in clinical and environmental settings.” This significant academic milestone was overseen by an esteemed tribunal, including the president of the committee, Susana Campoy Sanchez from UAB’s Department of Genetics and Microbiology, secretary Vasoula Skouridou of Universitat Rovira i Virgili, and vocal Javier Esteban Mussin, of Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Argentina.
Thesis Overview
Melania’s work addresses the critical global need for rapid diagnostic tests that are both sensitive and efficient, especially against the backdrop of emerging pathogens and novel diseases highlighted by recent pandemics. Her research contributes innovative methodologies to enhance pathogen detection through advanced electrochemical biosensing and in vitro diagnostics.
Innovations Introduced
- Preconcentration Strategy. Melania developed a pioneering method that combines magnetic particles with filtration, significantly enhancing the capture and concentration of bacteria from large sample volumes.
- Immunomagnetic Separation and Labeling. This process has been simplified into a single step within her methodology to drastically reduce analysis time.
- Cartridge-based Magnetic Actuation and Washing. This user-friendly operation mode minimizes the need for manual intervention, streamlining the process and improving reproducibility.
- Handheld Electrochemical Device. A key innovation is the use of a portable electrochemical device that allows for on-site and point-of-care testing, making it ideal for low-resource settings.
- Smartphone Integration. The thesis explores the use of smartphones operated via an app to perform measurements, aiming to make rapid diagnostic tests more accessible and cost-effective.
Impact of the Thesis
Melania’s thesis presents a substantial step forward in diagnostic testing, with her developed technologies improving regulatory limits for the detection of pathogens such as Legionella pneumophila, E. coli, and environmental mycobacteria. This has notable implications for environmental monitoring and global health, particularly in the detection of tuberculosis.
Reflections on the Defense
The defense was a culmination of rigorous research and innovation, with constructive feedback and insightful discussions led by the panel. Their exchange highlighted the practical applications of Melania’s work and set the stage for future developments in the field.
Melania’s successful defense not only marks the completion of her PhD journey but also paves the way for new standards in the diagnostics of infectious diseases, potentially transforming the landscape of global health diagnostics.
Looking Forward
As Melania moves forward in her career, the implications of her research are expected to influence both the academic and practical aspects of microbial diagnostics. Her work exemplifies the type of interdisciplinary and impactful research that is critical in today’s complex health landscape.
For anyone interested in the latest advancements in biosensing technologies or in developing solutions for rapid diagnostics, Melania’s thesis offers a wealth of knowledge and a blueprint for future innovations.