In the Thuringia consortium project RUnfAST, Leibniz-IPHT is researching a parallelizable confocal Raman sensing system for urine diagnostics. The goal is to further develop Raman spectroscopic analyses so that multiple samples can be evaluated simultaneously. This is expected to significantly shorten diagnostic processes and make them more easily integrated into clinical workflows.

At the core of the work is a new parallelization concept based on a GRIN detection module. This module enables the simultaneous readout of multiple measurement points, thereby reducing the time required for the spectroscopic characterization of bacterial pathogens. The sensor detects changes in the Raman spectra that indicate bacterial responses to antimicrobial substances.

The faster availability of this information allows timely assessment of pathogen sensitivity to antibiotics. On this basis, the selection of suitable active agents can be more targeted. The project thus contributes to rational antibiotic therapy and helps avoid unnecessary or ineffective treatments.

Another focus is the integration of automated sample preparation. This is intended to ensure that the Raman-based sensing system can be reliably used under clinical conditions, while also creating the foundation for a scalable application in in vitro diagnostics.

The project is funded by the Free State of Thuringia under the number 2024 VFE 0093 and co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

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