Colorimetric Sensor Array for Rapid Microbial Susceptibility Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods are time-consuming and inefficient, particularly in cases of sepsis where rapid identification and antibiotic resistance determination are critical, due to the rise of antibiotic-resistant infections.
Innovation Solution
A colorimetric sensor array system that cultures microorganisms in the presence of antibiotics, using volatile organic compounds produced by the microorganisms to determine susceptibility through sensor responses, allowing for rapid identification and antibiotic selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional AST methods (disk diffusion, agar dilution, broth microdilution) are used, then measurement precision of susceptibility is improved, but testing time increases to 8-15 hours or 2 days
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical/biological AST methods with a colorimetric sensor array system that detects volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by microorganisms. This substitution enables rapid susceptibility testing within hours by monitoring color changes in sensor spots rather than waiting for traditional culture and measurement processes
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes colorimetric sensor spots that change color in response to VOCs produced by microorganisms during antibiotic exposure. Each sensor spot contains a colorimetric indicator that undergoes visible color changes based on the presence and concentration of specific VOCs, enabling rapid visual or instrumental detection of susceptibility results without lengthy conventional testing
2Reliability
If broad-spectrum antibiotics are used immediately for sepsis treatment, then patient survival is improved by addressing infection quickly, but antibiotic resistance evolves and treatment effectiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary determination of antibiotic susceptibility by detecting VOCs produced by microorganisms exposed to antibiotics in the sensor array. This preliminary action allows clinicians to identify effective antibiotics before resistance fully develops, ensuring that the first-line treatment is targeted and appropriate rather than relying on broad-spectrum empiric therapy
Solution Approach 2:
The colorimetric sensor array provides rapid feedback on microbial susceptibility to specific antibiotics by detecting changes in VOC profiles. This feedback mechanism allows for evidence-based antibiotic selection within hours, creating a closed-loop system where treatment decisions are guided by real-time susceptibility data rather than delayed conventional testing results
3Manufacturing precision
If manual preparation of antibiotic dilutions is performed, then manufacturing precision of antibiotic concentrations is improved, but device complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-service approach where the colorimetric sensor array automatically performs susceptibility testing without requiring manual preparation of antibiotic dilutions. The sensor spots are pre-loaded with antibiotics at various concentrations, and the system autonomously detects VOCs and generates susceptibility results, eliminating tedious manual tasks while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The colorimetric sensor array serves multiple functions simultaneously: it houses multiple antibiotics at different concentrations in a single platform, detects VOCs from microorganisms, and provides susceptibility results for multiple antibiotics in one test. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate manual testing procedures into a single automated system
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid identification of microorganisms and assessment of antibiotic susceptibility within hours, potentially reducing sepsis-induced mortality by providing timely and effective antibiotic treatment.
Implementation Method 1
A response of the colorimetric sensor may indicate whether the microorganism is susceptible to the applied antibiotic at the specific concentration
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods for species and/or strain specific identification and assessment of susceptibility of microorganisms based on the response of sensors in a colorimetric sensor array to metabolic products of the microorganism. An exemplary method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can include culturing a sample that contains microorganisms. The sample can be in a medium which is exposed to a colorimetric sensor array. A test substance can be introduced to the sample. The method can assess a susceptibility of the microorganisms to the test substance based on a change in at least one sensor in the colorimetric sensor array. Sensors in the colorimetric sensor array can change in response to volatile organic compounds produced by the microorganisms after addition of the test sub stance.