Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have introduced a new rapid sequencing method that enables the identification of antibiotic resistance within the same working day. The innovative technique, known as s5PSeq, allows for the measurement of bacterial ribosome responses just minutes after exposure to an antibiotic, providing a molecular assessment of bacterial growth without relying on traditional culture methods.
The study, published in Cell Reports Methods in March 2026, demonstrates that s5PSeq can differentiate between erythromycin-resistant and sensitive strains of Clostridioides difficile after only ten minutes of treatment. By analyzing specific “stalling” patterns in bacterial RNA, the method can indicate susceptibility far earlier than visible growth changes typically observed in standard cultures.
One of the most significant advantages of s5PSeq is its compatibility with portable Nanopore sequencing devices, which are increasingly prevalent in diagnostic and research laboratories. This compatibility potentially allows for the integration of rapid molecular testing into everyday clinical workflows, enhancing the speed and accuracy of antibiotic resistance detection.
“Faster, phenotypic diagnostics are essential if we are to address antibiotic resistance effectively. Our method shows that reliable molecular readouts can be obtained in hours rather than days,” stated Vicent Pelechano, senior researcher at MTC and SciLifeLab and the senior author of the study.
The research team is now focused on adapting s5PSeq for direct testing of complex patient samples without the need for prior culturing. In collaboration with Karolinska University Hospital, they are also exploring the method’s application to additional pathogens and antibiotics, assessing its viability in real-world clinical environments.
“Our next step is to understand how well the method performs outside controlled laboratory conditions. These ongoing studies will help determine how s5PSeq can support faster and more informed treatment decisions,” explained Honglian Liu, PhD and first author of the study.
The introduction of this rapid sequencing method represents a significant advancement in the fight against antibiotic resistance. With the potential for quicker diagnoses, healthcare providers can make more informed decisions, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and a more effective response to one of the most pressing challenges in modern medicine.
