Conclusions - Waterborne Pathogens: Detection Methods and Applications - page 372

market, particularly in terms of monitoring, is heavily driven by regulation
and regulatory compliance. Adoption of new technologies for detection of
pathogens can be challenging within this framework.
12.2. THE FUTURE OF WATERBORNE PATHOGEN
MONITORING
Drawing conclusions from the above summary, it is clear that a wide
range of sample processing and detection techniques are the subject of
ongoing development for all types of microorganism. At present, the per-
formance of these approaches requires further improvement before wider
adoption by the water industry is possible.
In terms of sample processing, improvements are required to increase
recovery rates, to ensure the efficient removal of interferents, and to develop
methods which are low cost, robust, and easy to operate. New materials is
one key area of potential future development in sample processing, includ-
ing materials/chemicals for flocculation, filters (e.g. NanoCeram or glass
wool), elution protocols, and chemical additives or surface modifications to
prevent adsorption. Further research is required to optimize the use of these
materials, to fully understand their interactions with pathogens, and perhaps
to work toward cheaper, greener materials.
In general, the issue of sample processing has not received as much
research attention as detection technologies. However, this is a critical stage
in monitoring protocols, often determining the overall success, and it is,
therefore, essential to continue research in this area, particularly in charac-
terizing performance of different methods, development of new materials
and processes, and also in automation of processes, bringing the advantages
of reduced reliance on operator skill, reduced variability, and reduced risk
of cross-contamination of samples. Another important factor to develop is
that of analytical controls, which enable validation and quality assurance of
the sample concentration and enrichment processes.
Those developing new methods of detection should ensure that consid-
eration is given to sample processing and the challenge of environmental
water samples, rather than solely developing laboratory methods effective
for clean water samples. Furthermore, in general, limits of detection remain
too high and improvements in sensitivity are required.
Optical, electrical, biosensor, and molecular methods have all been
demonstrated for all types of microorganisms, although bacteria have been
most well-studied. Some optical, electrical and molecular approaches enable