Detection of carbapenemase-mediated antimicrobial resistance using surface-enhanced Raman scattering

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Spectroscopy

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health crisis.
• β-lactamase enzymes, particularly carbapenemases, confer resistance to critical antibiotics.
• Carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs) lead to severe infections with high mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a rapid and precise method for detecting carbapenemase activity.
• To establish a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based approach for identifying CPOs.

Main Methods:

• Application of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy.
• Analysis of spectral fingerprint changes resulting from enzyme-catalyzed carbapenem hydrolysis.

Main Results:

• Distinct spectral fingerprints were observed due to carbapenem hydrolysis by carbapenemases.
• The SERS methodology successfully detected carbapenemase activity, indicating the presence of CPOs.

Conclusions:

• SERS provides a sensitive and specific method for detecting carbapenemase activity.
• This SERS-based approach offers a promising tool for the timely identification of CPOs, aiding in infection control and treatment strategies.