Evaluation of the DNA microarray "AMR Direct Flow Chip Kit" for detection of antimicrobial resistance genes from Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial isolated colonies.

INTRODUCTION

The AMR Direct Flow Chip assay allows the simultaneous detection of a large variety of antibiotic resistance genetic markers. To assess this kit's performance, we use isolated colonies as starting material. The assay has been approved by the European Economic Area as a suitable device for in vitro diagnosis (CE IVD) using clinical specimens.

METHODS

A total of 210 bacterial isolates harbouring either one or more antimicrobial resistance genes including plasmid-encoded extended-spectrum β-lactamases (SHV, CTX-M) and carbapenemases (GES, SME, KPC, NMC/IMI, SIM, GIM, SPM, NDM, VIM, IMP, and OXA), mecA, vanA and vanB, and 30 controls were included.

RESULTS

The assay displayed a sensitivity and specificity of 100% for all target genes included in the array.

CONCLUSION

The AMR Direct Flow Chip Kit is an accurate assay for detecting genes which commonly confer resistance to β-lactams and vancomycin from isolated colonies in culture of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.