A technology developed by a consortium of Portuguese companies, universities, and research centres can identify bacteria and genes associated with antibiotic resistance in approximately 45 minutes, significantly reducing the time required to obtain actionable information on certain infections.
Named InviDx, the device was developed under the SMARTgNOSTICS project and is capable of detecting up to ten different targets in a urine sample, including bacteria and genes linked to antimicrobial resistance.
Under current standard practice, identifying the bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections and assessing their sensitivity to antibiotics can take between 48 and 72 hours through conventional examinations such as urine culture — the gold-standard laboratory test for detecting and identifying bacteria or fungi in the urinary tract.
With InviDx, preliminary results can be obtained in approximately 45 minutes, with no need to wait for bacteria to multiply in a laboratory setting. The equipment uses molecular analysis techniques to identify the genetic material of microorganisms and their resistance mechanisms. After sample preparation and DNA extraction, specific reagents are applied to detect the defined genetic targets.
Despite the speed advantage, the identification of resistance genes does not in itself determine which antibiotic is most appropriate for a given patient. Results must be interpreted by healthcare professionals and, where necessary, supplemented with additional laboratory tests.
At this stage, InviDx is available exclusively for research purposes and has not yet been authorised as a clinical diagnostic device. The first approved clinical study using the technology will be conducted at the Unidade Local de Saúde da Cova da Beira in Portugal, with a focus on urinary tract infections.
The consortium intends to expand the platform’s application in the future to identify agents associated with respiratory infections, sepsis, and sexually transmitted infections. The technology may also be used to monitor antibiotic resistance in wastewater.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/?p=556638
