BioProbe Diagnostics Bio LP-1 qPCR test for rapid Legionella detection

BioProbe Diagnostics, a spinout from the National University of Ireland Galway, develops innovative PCR tests for the detection of microbial pathogens associated with water contamination in environmental and industrial processes. The company has now created Bio LP-1 — a complete water test that will reduce Legionella detection from 14 days to under 5 h, detecting multiple Legionella species in a just one water sample.

Rapid Legionella detection is becoming increasingly important. Months of COVID-19 lockdowns have seen a concerning rise in Legionella outbreaks globally, as stagnant water in unused facilities provides an ideal breeding ground for the bacteria.

Bio LP-1 is a rapid and sensitive qPCR test that provides a complete Legionella profile, offering a rapid and robust solution for testing laboratories. It also has wider social impacts in that water quality and safety can be assured in a few hours, as opposed to the days currently deployed. This is useful for test providers — particularly in an outbreak scenario, where they can rapidly see if remedial actions are working.