Simple Tool Provides Reliable Method for Identifying Pathogens

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 15 Dec 2023

Image: The new method identifies bacteria easily, cheaply and more precisely than before (Photo courtesy of NTNU)

The overuse of antibiotics globally has led to an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making the treatment of bacterial diseases increasingly challenging. Antibiotics are a crucial tool in combating these infections, and reducing their usage is essential. To aid in this effort, researchers have devised a new method for identifying bacteria that is simpler, less expensive, and more accurate than previous techniques. This advancement could play a significant role in reducing antibiotic use.

The new method developed by an international research group led by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU, Trondheim, Norway) is faster because it eliminates the need for 'gene amplification'. This traditional step, which involves creating multiple copies of genetic material for easier analysis, is no longer necessary. The innovative method focuses on detecting short DNA sequences of bacteria. It achieves this by observing the binding of these sequences to various DNA variants are grafted onto colloids – particles suspended in a liquid.

This approach allows for rapid bacterial identification by analyzing how different bacteria bind to these colloids, causing the, to clump together. The advantage here is the reduced need for analyzing large volumes of genetic material and the ability to bypass the gene copying process. This results in time and cost savings. While this method is still in the early stages of development, it holds significant potential, especially in a context where antibiotic resistance is a growing concern. More work is needed to bring this method into mainstream usage

“We have developed a simple tool that can identify all of the genetic material in bacteria,” said Professor Erika Eiser at NTNU’s Department of Physics. “This allows us to find out more quickly what kind of bacteria a sick person or animal is affected by, or what kind of bacteria are found in food or the environment. We can then also decide whether it is necessary to use antibiotics against the bacterium, and if so what kind, so we don’t have to use as much medication.”

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