Rapid identification of ESKAPE bacterial strains using an autonomous microfluidic device

Area of Science:

• Microfluidics
• Biotechnology
• Pathogen Detection

Background:

• Rapid and accurate identification of pathogenic bacteria is crucial for effective treatment and infection control.
• Current methods often require specialized equipment and trained personnel, limiting their use in resource-limited settings.
• The ESKAPE panel represents a critical group of multidrug-resistant pathogens that pose a significant global health threat.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an inexpensive, portable, and autonomous microfluidic platform for the rapid identification of pathogenic bacteria.
• To demonstrate the capability of this platform, termed Bacteria ID Chips (BacChips), for detecting the ESKAPE panel of pathogens.
• To lay the groundwork for multiplexed assays for bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing at the point-of-care.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of microfluidic devices (BacChips) using poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) with preloaded, dried saccharides in microchambers.
• Sample introduction into the device, where bacterial metabolism of saccharides is visualized using an admixed pH indicator.
• Autonomous operation relying on capillary action and integrated air barriers, requiring no external equipment for detection.
• Visual detection of bacterial growth under ambient light after approximately 4 hours.

Main Results:

• BacChips successfully and reproducibly detected the ESKAPE panel of pathogens, including specific strains of *Enterococcus faecalis*, *Enterococcus faecium*, *Staphylococcus aureus*, *Klebsiella pneumoniae*, *Acinetobacter baumannii*, *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*, *Enterobacter aerogenes*, and *Enterobacter cloacae*.
• The device demonstrated autonomous operation and visual detection of bacterial metabolism within approximately 4 hours.
• The platform's small footprint (∼6 cm²) and portability were highlighted.

Conclusions:

• BacChips offer a promising solution for inexpensive, portable, and autonomous point-of-care detection of critical ESKAPE pathogens.
• The developed microfluidic platform facilitates rapid visual identification of bacterial metabolism.
• This technology serves as a foundation for developing advanced diagnostic tools for clinical samples, including antibiotic susceptibility testing.