INER Adopts T2MR Technology to Combat AMR, Speed Diagnosis

The National Institute of Respiratory Diseases (INER) “Ismael Cosío Villegas,” part of Mexico’s Ministry of Health, has introduced its first diagnostic equipment for infectious diseases, using T2 Magnetic Resonance (T2MR) technology. This technology will aid in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and accelerate diagnosis. INER is the first public institution in Mexico and Latin America to implement T2MR technology, strengthening its role as a leader in infectious disease diagnostics and focusing on tackling challenges and improving patient care.

T2MR is a diagnostic method that uses magnetic resonance to detect molecular targets in patient samples quickly and accurately, without the need for purification or extraction, as reported by T2Byosystems. The T2MR diagnostic signal remains unaffected by the sample background, even in complex blood samples from patients suspected of having sepsis. Additionally, this technology helps reduce AMR by delivering the precise antibiotics a patient needs, minimizing side effects, and shortening hospital stay, explained Eduardo Becerril, Head of Clinical Microbiology Laboratory, INER.

AMR is increasing the global incidence of infectious diseases affecting the human population, constituting a significant danger to public health and development, as reported by MBN. Without effective control, this crisis could cause prolonged illness, increase healthcare costs, significant morbidity and, ultimately, severe economic setbacks by 2050, according to the World Bank. “The less control in antibiotic consumption, the more resistance, which sharply increases costs for the entire health system,” explains Suria González, Infectionist, bioMérieux, to MBN.

T2MR technology identifies bacteria and certain fungi in blood samples, significantly improving diagnostic speed and accuracy. The new equipment can detect up to six microorganisms within 12 hours, reducing diagnostic time by more than 80% and enabling faster, more effective treatment decisions. “Diagnostics hold immense power, providing critical information that influences the next steps in patient care. At the heart of preventive medicine is obtaining this information as early as possible to ensure the patient receives timely treatment,” says Thierry Bernard, CEO, QIAGEN, to MBN.

The technology’s impact extends beyond INER as other institutions within the health sector will also be able to use the new equipment, making it a valuable resource in the broader effort to fight infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance.