Developed three ddPCR assays targeting all Borrelia, Lyme-causing Borrelia, and B. burgdorferi.

Detect as few as 5–10 bacterial cells, showing high analytical sensitivity.

Demonstrated high specificity, avoiding false positives from nontarget organisms.

Validated on blood and FFPE skin biopsies, plus reference strains.

Identified active B. burgdorferi DNA in a patient despite negative antibody results.

Works across multiple ddPCR platforms, easing adoption in molecular labs.

Direct DNA detection could shorten diagnosis time and improve treatment outcomes.