Antimicrobial research facilities

The Antimicrobial Resistance laboratory, located within University Hospital Southampton and run in partnership with University of Southampton, is our facility for research tackling the global health threat of antimicrobial resistance.

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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites change over time and no longer respond to medicines such as antibiotics. This makes infections harder to treat, and increases the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared it one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity. Our AMR laboratory is a dedicated facility for research tackling this huge challenge.

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We work with the University of Southampton's National Biofilm Innovation Centre and Global Network for Anti-Microbial Resistance and Infection Prevention (NAMRIP) to tackle this challenge. 

 

Reducing unnecessary antibiotic use

Overuse and misuse of antibiotics is the main driver of AMR. Research done at this laboratory aims to develop faster, more accurate point-of-care tests to quickly determine if antibiotics are required. For example, these rapid tests could be used to find out if a patient's cough is caused by bacteria (treatable with antibiotics) or a virus (not treatable with antibiotics).

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Breaking through biofilms

We are also conducting research into biofilms, a slime produced by some bacteria that protects them from antibiotics and helps them develop resistance. This includes research to develop new therapeutic technologies, establish diagnostic standards for biofilm infections, and improve the diagnosis and treatment of biofilm-related clinical infections.

 

Providing specialist equipment and facilities

The laboratory, based on Level E of the hospital, offers researchers specialised equipment and facilities, including:

• access to clinical wards 

• two class 2 microbiological safety cabinets

• Biomerieux  film array-torch

• Nikon confocal microscope

• two -20°C freezers

• two 4°C fridges

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Using the facility

If you would like to use this facility, please contact us to discuss your requirements.

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