Electrochemical Detection of Antibiotic Resistance in Pathogens

Abstract

The increase of antibiotic resistance (AR) is a global concern for patients with acute infections as well as chronic illnesses, such as cystic fibrosis. Few antibiotics are effective, in particular against Gram-negative bacteria, due to their inherent cell membrane impermeability and high number of efflux pumps. Consequently, there is a dire need for innovative strategies to understand the underlying causes of low drug uptake and high efflux in bacteria. Electrochemistry has attracted immense attention over the past decade, because its methods are cost efficient and sensitive. This presentation highlights bioelectrochemical approaches to recognize and quantify antibiotic resistance. Following the characterization of antibacterials, the monitoring of drug efflux, the detection of antibiotic resistance through cell metabolites and the measurement of drug retention in bacteria are possible strategies to quantify antibiotic resistance in pathogens. The presented research forms the basis for the future development of a point-of-care biosensor to identify antibiotic resistance in patient samples. Such technology would advance clinical treatment from the current trial-and-error approach to the prescription of evidence based personalized drug regimens and benefit patients around the world.