Lab-on-a-disc platform for screening of genetically modified E. coli cells via cell-free electrochemical detection of p-Coumaric acid

We present a robust easy to use lab-on-a-disc (LoD) device with integrated sample pre-treatment and electrochemical detection system for cell-free detection of a secondary metabolite, p-Coumaric acid (pHCA), produced by genetically modified E. coli. In the LoD device, which incorporates eight filtration and electrochemical detection units, the sample filtration was performed by rotating the disc using a programmable closed-loop stepper motor.

The electrodes, patterned on plastic substrate, were connected through a printed circuit board to the slip ring using a robust magnetic clamping system that enables easy assembly and robust electrical connections. pHCA was quantified in a linear range from 0.125 up to 2 mM using square wave voltammetry.

The platform was successfully used for the quantification of pHCA produced by two genetically modified E. coli strains after 24 h of cell culture. The data obtained from the electrochemical measurements showed good correlation with high performance liquid chromatographic analysis. The developed LoD system offers fast and easy detection of pHCA, enabling screening of genetically modified organisms based on the quantity of produced secondary metabolites.