Researchers have developed a pico-calorimeter that can detect antibiotic resistance by measuring the tiny amounts of heat produced by bacteria. The device, described in a study published in Nature Biomedical Engineering on June 15, 2026, can identify resistance in under 30 minutes, compared to traditional methods that take days.
The sensor works by detecting the heat generated when bacteria metabolize antibiotics. Resistant bacteria continue to produce heat, while susceptible ones show a reduced heat signature. This allows for rapid diagnosis of infections like urinary tract infections, which are often caused by E. coli.
In tests, the pico-calorimeter correctly identified antibiotic resistance in 95% of clinical samples. The device is small enough to be used in point-of-care settings, potentially reducing the overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics and combating the rise of drug-resistant infections.
