Detection of invasive microorganisms using magnet-based diagnostics with LAMP

In Germany, around 85,000 people die each year as a result of sepsis, meaning that the number of sepsis-related deaths is higher than the combined number of deaths from stroke and heart attack. The main cause is bacterial infections, but invasive fungal infections also contribute significantly. These pathogens are often detected too late, making sepsis one of the most commonly overlooked causes of death in intensive care units.

The "Mikro-MeDi-LAMP" project, coordinated by Fraunhofer IME, is researching a new detection concept that could potentially be used as an innovative, patient-oriented POCT system, enabling rapid, culture-independent diagnosis of pathogenic microorganisms and their antimicrobial resistance in bloodstream infections within an hour. This early and precise diagnosis enables targeted therapy for at-risk patient groups, shortens treatment times, and avoids incorrect treatment. This improves survival and recovery rates, limits the spread of resistance, and reduces the overall costs to society for hospitals and the healthcare system.

The solution initially focuses on particularly relevant pathogens, including yeasts such as Candida spp., the mold Aspergillus fumigatus, and the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Pathogens are specifically enriched and labeled from blood samples using magnetic nanosensors to enable their specific detection. Genetic detection is then performed using specific pathogen and resistance genes. A new isothermal amplification strategy (LAMP) in combination with a magnetic detection method is to be researched and developed. Parallel to the MeDi-LAMP method, a user-friendly POCT device is being developed that can analyze several samples simultaneously. Optimization of the method ensures high reliability, short analysis times, and robust application in clinical practice.

Fraunhofer IME is primarily responsible for implementing the concept for enriching microorganisms from blood and is also contributing its expertise in close cooperation with its partners to the realization of the magnetic LAMP assays.