Advancing a benchtop whole-genome-sequencing test to reduce time-to-treatment for sepsis 

Project title: Precision medicine for sepsis management using whole genome sequencing: Prototyping and integration of GenomeKeyDx microfluidic test cartridge 

Bloodstream infections and sepsis have a 1-in-5 mortality rate and are a major burden on healthcare systems. Patients suspected of having sepsis immediately receive broad-spectrum antibiotics, but these are becoming less effective due to rising antimicrobial resistance. This could be addressed by using a more targeted antibiotic, but current tests take 48–72 hours, which would be too late for many patients.  

To address these problems, GenomeKey is developing a benchtop device (GenomeKeyDx) that uses a culture-free, microfluidic workflow. Novel biochemistry is used to selectively deplete human DNA from a patient’s blood sample, while enriching bacterial DNA. Following whole genome sequencing, machine learning algorithms are used to determine the species and predict antimicrobial resistance with an accuracy comparable to the current gold standard. Importantly, the entire process is completed within just six hours. 

Key components of GenomeKeyDx have already been validated in pilot studies, demonstrating effective enrichment of low-copy-number bacteria and accurate prediction of antimicrobial resistance. With funding and support from PACE, GenomeKey will progress the technology further. This will involve optimisation and unification of the biochemical, microfluidic and informatics subsystems into a single prototype benchtop platform that can be used in NHS field studies. 

Success for the project will mean a significantly reduced time-to-result for patients suspected of having sepsis, meaning less delay in using a targeted antibiotic therapy. This will reduce mortality and inappropriate antibiotic use, leading to better patient outcomes, contributing to reduced healthcare costs, and reducing the spread of antimicrobial resistance. 

Company Summary

GenomeKey’s mission is to prevent avoidable deaths from infection. The company is developing a next-generation in-vitro diagnostic device that uses direct-from-blood whole-genome sequencing and machine-learning analytics to identify bacteria and their antimicrobial-resistance profile in just hours, rather than days. Their goal is to empower clinicians with rapid, precise data so they can start the right antibiotic treatment early, reduce unnecessary use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and combat the global threat of antimicrobial resistance.