The following Proof-of-Concept project has been awarded consumables funding by the AMR network:

'Rapid detection of E. coli in fluoropolymer microcapillary films'

Rapid detection of E. coli in fluoropolymer microcapillary films. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections representing a significant healthcare burden. Over 80% of UTIs are caused by Escherichia coli, and current diagnosis of UTIs is entirely dependent of microbiological sample culture in centralised labs. This project will demonstrate the capability of rapid, point-of-care detection of E. coli in novel fluoropolymer microfluidic devices. Rapid identification of bacterial at point-of-care has proved very challenging, with no tests currently available to identify and quantify pathogens in clinical setting. It is believed the novel E.coli diagnostic test will help managing the current over prescription of antibiotics in UTIs and monitoring patients with reoccurring disease.

Investigators: Dr Nuno M Reis and Isabel Alves, AACME