3 research outputs found
Computational Models for Trapping Ebola Virus Using Engineered Bacteria
The outbreak of Ebola virus in recent years has
resulted in numerous research initiatives to seek new solutions
to contain the virus. A number of approaches that have been
investigated include new vaccines to boost the immune system.
An alternative post-exposure treatment is presented in this
paper. The proposed approach for clearing Ebola virus can
be developed through a microfluidic attenuator, which contains
the engineered bacteria that traps Ebola flowing through the
blood onto its membrane. The paper presents the analysis of
the chemical binding force between the virus and a genetically
engineered bacterium considering the opposing forces acting on
the attachment point, including hydrodynamic tension and drag
force. To test the efficacy of the technique, simulations of bacterial
motility within a confined area to trap the virus were performed.
More than 60% of the displaced virus could be collected within
15 minutes. While the proposed approach currently focuses on
in vitro environments for trapping the virus, the system can be
further developed into the future for treatment whereby blood
can be cycled out of the body into a microfluidic device that
contains the engineered bacteria to trap viruses