How tiny test tubes could be the key to antibiotic resistance research
Academics at Loughborough University have developed a portable power-free test for the rapid detection of bacterial resistance to antibiotics.
The new test called 'Lab-on-a Stick' has been developed in partnership with the University of Reading.
It involves an inexpensive strip - comprising of tiny test tubes about the size of a human hair - which are capable of identifying bacteria found in urine samples and checking if they are resistant to common antibiotics.
Those involved in the study say it's simple to use and cheap to manufacture.
It uses a 'dip and read' method using a transparent film suitable for naked eye detection or measurement using a smartphone camera.
The say it could be a major step towards miniaturising complex, routine microbiological and clinical tests that at the moment cannot be performed outside of the lab.
As part of the study, different tests were carried out using the stick to demonstrate the full potential of it for a range of clinical situations.
Read more: Could dramatic dog fertility rate fall help human research?