InfektResonator_WGM
Microresonators for point-of-care diagnostics of pathogens
Increasing numbers of antibiotic-resistant pathogens is a challenge for the healthcare system. Identification of pathogens and selection of adequate antibiotics are crucial to ensure successful treatment of infections with resistant microorganisms. Therapeutic success may be negatively affected if ineffective antibiotics are used. The aim of the InfektResonator project is to further develop Whispering Gallery Mode (WGM) sensor technology into a rapid analysis platform for rapid diagnostic tests. Here, microresonators detect the specific binding of biomarkers to sensor particles coated with suitable capture molecules. The low detection limits of up to 50 fmol are to be used via biomarker or functional detection for the analysis of antibiotic resistance of pathogens without prior culture. In addition, new biomarkers are to be identified for diagnostics which, due to the low quantities in sample materials, could previously only be detected using complex and cost-intensive measurement methods. In parallel to the analysis of bacterial biomarkers, the project also aims to adapt the WGM sensor technology for rapid and cost-effective molecular biological assays such as the binding of active lactamases to antibiotic structures.
Funding
The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) within the program for the promotion of joint industrial research (IGF) (AiF-Forschungsvereinigung Feinmechanik, Optik und Medizintechnik e.V. – F.O.M.), IGF-Vorhaben Nr.: 20934 N/1
