The In-Dx point-of-care test, which is more than one year into a clinical trial that will validate the diagnostic system, can detect life-threatening bacteria faster, potentially giving doctors a better chance at saving someone's life. (Credit: G.L. Kohuth)

A molecular diagnostic system can identify dangerous bacteria such as E. coli, staph infections, and even some superbugs. The test can produce results within two hours using blood, urine, spit, wound, stool, or cerebral spine fluid samples from infected patients.

The point-of-care diagnostic test, known as In-Dx, has high sensitivity and specificity for detection of the most common infectious organisms, which will help physicians quickly rule in or rule out specific offending bacteria. The detection process is relatively simple for both the patient and physician. A sample is collected and concentrated into a smaller amount. After applying heat, which breaks down the sample cells, it’s then placed into the In-Dx testing panel and after 20 minutes of incubation time, the positive sample changes color, revealing the invading organism.

After a year of clinical trials, preliminary results for the look promising. From 300 clinical specimens, they have seen nearly an 85 percent accuracy rate in identifying the exact bacteria using the diagnostic system. Urine and wound samples appear to be more accurate and produce faster results.

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