Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to modern medicine, jeopardising the advances achieved over recent decades. Without effective interventions, AMR-related deaths are projected to exceed all other causes by 2050. High performing diagnostics are key to understanding and addressing this problem.
In my presentation, I will discuss two innovative solutions developed in collaboration with colleagues at IBMS. First, we are employing Raman spectroscopy for the rapid identification of disease-causing bacteria and determine their sensitivity to antibiotics. This technique promises to enhance the accuracy of diagnosis and expedite appropriate treatment decisions. The ambition is to transition to a culture-free new standard for microbiology diagnostics that generates insight on a single cell level.
Second, I will introduce a Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) method, a user-friendly amplification technique that requires minimal equipment. We have successfully developed assays targeting the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) using this approach.
I will present data demonstrating the performance of these assays and explore their potential integration into routine clinical practice, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes in the face of rising AMR.