Biosensors & Bioelectronics

Assessing Antibiotic Effects on Microbial Cells using Electroacoustic Biosensor Systems

Abstract

Blessy Smith*

The increasing global threat of antimicrobial resistance necessitates innovative approaches for the rapid evaluation of antibiotic efficacy on microbial cells. This study introduces a novel method utilizing electroacoustic biosensor systems to assess the impact of antibiotics on microbial viability and behaviour. These biosensors combine acoustic wave technology with biological interfaces to detect subtle changes in cell properties induced by antibiotic exposure. By interfacing with microbial cells, the biosensor system offers real-time, label-free and non-invasive monitoring of cellular responses to antibiotics. The biosensor's principle is based on the measurement of changes in acoustic wave properties, such as frequency and impedance, resulting from cellular interactions. Antibiotic-induced alterations in microbial viability, membrane integrity and cellular adhesion can be accurately quantified through these changes. The biosensor system's versatility allows for the evaluation of a wide range of microbial species and antibiotic compounds, offering insights into specific modes of action and potential resistance mechanisms.