A groundbreaking portable device promises to revolutionize the detection and treatment of urinary tract infections by providing almost instant results. Through a simple urine sample analysis, it can identify the bacterium causing the infection, detect antibiotic resistance genes, and suggest the appropriate antibiotic for treatment, announced a biomedical science expert.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which allows microorganisms like bacteria to survive antibiotic treatments and complicates infection management, remains a significant global public health challenge. Josué Carvalho explained that the innovative tests, the first designed in Portugal, can detect AMR rapidly compared to traditional methods that require two to three days for results.
Utilizing advanced technologies developed under the SMARTgNOSTICS consortium, the new test yields results in just 30 minutes. Designed for outpatient settings, the test is intended for use by healthcare professionals in primary care centers and emergency services during initial patient assessments.
The device employs cutting-edge molecular biology techniques to conduct DNA amplification of bacteria, enabling it to identify the infectious bacterium and its antibiotic resistance. It provides detailed guidance on appropriate antibiotic prescriptions, advising against those antibiotics to which the pathogen shows resistance, thereby improving treatment outcomes and preventing further resistance development.
The research phase for this test is slated for completion by mid-year, followed by clinical trials, with the commercialization of devices projected for the latter half of 2025. The test’s adaptable nature allows its methodology and reagents to be applied to various infections beyond urinary, such as skin or respiratory tract infections.
The initial focus on urinary infections is attributed to the availability of relevant data on bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes. The project also envisions expanding its testing capabilities to veterinary diagnostics, following a similar methodology.
“We aim to identify the infection-causing bacteria and the resistance gene in veterinary applications, assisting veterinarians in prescribing the correct antibiotic,” the scientist remarked.
The consortium comprises several notable entities, including the Iberian Nanotechnology Institute (INL), the Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering, Technology and Science (INESC TEC) associated with the University of Porto, the University of Minho, robotics firm SPMAQ, pharmaceutical company Fresenius Kabi, and the National Health and Agricultural and Veterinary Research Institutes of Portugal. ALS, an international technical and laboratory services company, serves as the primary sponsor of the research and development endeavors.
