Molecular biology tests have become established in everyday clinical practice because they recognise many resistance genes in pathogens. Taking successful methods as a basis, we intend to develop further tests that can detect additional known resistance traits, but are also able to detect new resistance variants. The tests are based on biochemical, immunological and rapid culture methods, depending on the molecular property that is responsible for resistance and is therefore to be identified. We are focusing on difficult-to-treat multi-resistant bacteria, in particular hospital-acquired bacterial species such as Enterobacteraciae, Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The tests are expected to deliver results in less than three hours and require only simple laboratory equipment.

There is a great need for faster diagnostic tests in both veterinary and human medicine. These would increase cure and survival rates, while at the same time helping to fight resistance by enabling a more targeted use of antibiotics.

Our aim is to develop and validate the tests rapidly, which means having them available for clinical use within the three years this project lasts. The tests will screen for several non-related antibiotic resistance traits in difficult-to-treat bacteria.

The tests are designed to detect resistances of great medical importance and are suitable for both human and veterinary medicine. Since they also require only simple laboratory equipment, they can be used quickly both in Switzerland and internationally.

Rapid diagnostic tests for detection of antibiotic resistance in clinically-significant Gram-negative bacteria