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Published on: June 9, 2014
Utilizing Paper-Based Devices for Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria Detection
Katherine E Boehle1, Jake Gilliand2, Christopher R Wheeldon1
1Department of Chemistry, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA.
Abstract:
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the ability of a bacterial species to resist the action of an antimicrobial drug, has been on the rise due to the widespread use of antimicrobial agents. Per the World Health Organization, AMR has an estimated annual cost of USD 34 billion in the US and is predicted to be the number one cause of death worldwide by 2050. One way AMR bacteria can spread, and by which individuals can contract AMR infections, is through contaminated water. Monitoring AMR bacteria in the environment currently requires that samples be transported to a central laboratory for slow and labor intensive tests. We have developed an inexpensive assay using paper-based analytical devices (PADs) that can test for the presence of β-lactamase-mediated resistance. To demonstrate viability, the PAD was used to detect β-lactam resistance in wastewater and sewage and identified resistance in individual bacterial species isolated from environmental water sources.
Insights
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing threat, often spread through contaminated water. A new, inexpensive paper-based assay can now quickly detect AMR bacteria in environmental samples.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health threat, exacerbated by widespread antimicrobial use.
- Contaminated water serves as a critical pathway for the spread of AMR bacteria and subsequent infections.
- Current environmental monitoring methods for AMR are slow, labor-intensive, and require laboratory transport.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an inexpensive and rapid assay for detecting AMR in environmental samples.
- To specifically target the detection of beta-lactamase-mediated resistance, a common AMR mechanism.
Main Methods:
- Development of a low-cost paper-based analytical device (PAD) for AMR detection.
- Application of the PAD assay to analyze wastewater and sewage samples.
- Isolation and testing of individual bacterial species from environmental water sources.
Main Results:
- The PAD assay successfully detected beta-lactam resistance in wastewater and sewage samples.
- The assay identified specific bacterial species carrying beta-lactam resistance from environmental water.
Conclusions:
- Paper-based analytical devices offer a viable, cost-effective solution for on-site AMR monitoring in environmental water.
- Rapid detection of AMR in water sources can aid in controlling its spread and mitigating public health risks.
