An unprecedented partnership between India and the UK is underway, aimed at revolutionizing the detection of urinary tract infections (UTIs) to combat the rising challenge of antibiotic resistance. This pioneering initiative, termed DOSA2, led by the University of Edinburgh and involving five esteemed academic institutions across borders, seeks to address the pressing global concern of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Dr. Mike Strange, Head of Global Health at LifeArc, emphasized the project's primary objective: to curb the emergence of drug-resistant infections and enhance diagnostic capabilities for UTIs.

Building on the success of DOSA1, supported by UK Research and Innovation and India's Department of Biotechnology, DOSA2 strives to develop an affordable and user-friendly UTI diagnostic strip. This strip, when utilized with a urine sample, swiftly detects the presence of UTIs, aiding in prompt treatment decisions.

DOSA2's current phase involves a field study in India, engaging healthcare professionals, volunteers, and accredited social health activists (ASHAs). Their collaborative efforts aim to evaluate the accuracy of the UTI test strip, collect urine samples, and assess UTI-related knowledge and practices in communities.

Professor Till Bachmann from the University of Edinburgh underscored the urgency of addressing UTIs, the second leading cause of global antibiotic consumption. He highlighted the project's aim to introduce a cost-effective and user-friendly diagnostic tool that can significantly impact lives.

The test, designed for home use, identifies bacteria and infections through specific urine indicators, offering simplicity, affordability, and minimal environmental impact.

This groundbreaking project- DOSA2, spearheaded by the University of Edinburgh, brings together five leading academic institutions, including the University of the Arts London, Silchar Medical College, Assam University, and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. DOSA2 focuses on developing advanced diagnostic technologies to address the rising concerns of AMR.

This collaborative endeavor holds immense promise, particularly for India, where the overuse of antibiotics is a major concern. By transforming UTI diagnosis and treatment approaches, this research stands as a beacon of hope in the global battle against antibiotic resistance, aiming to safeguard the effectiveness of antibiotics and improve UTI care worldwide.

News Source: The Economic Times