Developing a microfluidics-based platform for rapid testing of microbial resistance to antibiotics

Microbial resistance to antibiotics (also referred to as antimicrobial resistance, or AMR) has become increasingly challenging worldwide, with substantial societal and economic impact. This may be attributed to a variety of human actions, such as unnecessary prescription in healthcare, blanket prescription in agriculture and careless release of antibiotics into the environment. Lack of appropriate and rapid testing methods is regarded as one of the main reasons for over- and inappropriate use of antibiotics. The aim of this project is to develop a microfluidics-based platform for rapid testing of microbial resistance to antibiotics. The main objectives are (i) design and fabrication of microfluidic devices, which consist of microchannels for sampling and reaction; (ii) development of a microfluidics-based bioassay for detection; (iii) integration of the microfluidic device with detection; and (iv) test and evaluation of the platform for AMR applications.