Antimicrobial Susceptibility Test

Conventional AST methods, such as microdilution and disk diffusion, are labor-intensive and require extensive time to deliver results, often delaying critical treatment decisions. To address these limitations, innovative AST solutions utilizing markers and well-based structures have been developed. These technologies enable rapid, precise, and cost-effective testing of antibiotic susceptibility. Our μWELLplug system leverages a hydrogel-based microwell structure within a standard 96-well plate. It isolates bacterial cells and facilitates morphological analysis under antibiotics, significantly reducing testing time to 3-4 hours compared to the conventional 18-24 hours. This stress-free environment ensures high accuracy and compatibility with various cell types​. Similarly, a gradient nib marker pen device introduces a concentration gradient of antibiotics directly onto bacterial cultures, eliminating repetitive dilution steps. This device generates precise inhibition zones, visualized and quantified using grayscale imaging, streamlining AST on a laboratory scale​. These advancements improve efficiency and accessibility in clinical and research environments, supporting timely and accurate antibiotic stewardship.