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Identifying antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria

The new Streck Philisa ampC ID kit enables rapid identification of six plasmid-mediated ampC resistance genes for pathogen surveillance in hospitals and research. When used along with standard culture, this conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) kit will help to provide up-to-date information for infection control by identifying which Gram-negative ampC-resistant bacterial strains are present in the hospital. Resistance to the beta-lactam class of antimicrobials is a significant cause of multidrug-resistant urinary tract and bloodstream infections.

The Philisa ampC ID kit, available exclusively in the UK from Alpha Laboratories, is a PCR- based molecular test that detects six of the most common plasmid-mediated ampC gene families (MOX, DHA, ACC, EBC, FOX, CMY). It provides a result in one hour, compared to the two/three days taken by traditional disk-diffusion methods. An endogenous internal control reduces false-negative results.

The test involves a 15-minute PCR step, followed by agarose gel electrophoresis to resolve the PCR products. Their molecular masses are then compared against external controls to provide an indication of genotype. This gives a clear, positive identification of strain genotype and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) potential.

The increased incidence of antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria is of significant and growing concern. Treatment options for such bacteria are relatively limited and further restricted by the emergence of AMR. Resistance in Gram-negative species is usually associated with beta-lactamase enzymes, of which class C cephalosporinases (AmpC) is one of the best known. Thus, a proper understanding of the specific genotype and susceptibility of a given strain is the key to effective therapeutic intervention.
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Upcoming Events

USCAP 113th Annual Meeting

Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
23-28 March, 2024

Pathology Horizons 2024

MacDonald Bath Spa Hotel, Bath
18-20 April, 2024

Diagnostics North East Conference 2024

The Catalyst, Newcastle upon Tyne
19 April, 2024

ECCMID 2024 - European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases

Fira Gran Via, 08038 Barcelona, Spain
27-30 April 2024

British Society for Microbial Technology Annual Microbiology Conference

UK Health Security Agency, Colindale, London
2 May 2024

EQA Reports: Interpreting Key Information & Troubleshooting Tips

ONLINE - Zoom
Thursday 16th May 2024

Access the latest issue of Pathology In Practice on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Pathology In Practice app from your device's App store

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