An independent academy that builds bridges between science, business and politics

The Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA) is an independent academy with a mission “...to promote engineering and economic sciences and the advancement of business and industry for the benefit of society.” We bring together leading engineers, economists, researchers, entrepreneurs and leaders in business and the public sector, who contribute generously to IVA’s operations through their intellectual capital and their engagement.

A meeting place for Sweden's future

IVA believes in humanity’s capacity to contribute positively to society through the engineering and economic sciences. We run a number of projects and programmes, produce reports, knowledge bases and policy proposals, and organise open seminars and meetings nationwide. We also recognise and encourage the efforts of others by awarding distinctions and grants.

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Earlier detection of antibiotic heteroresistance

Earlier detection of antibiotic heteroresistance

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the world’s biggest health threats, estimated to cause 2 million deaths per year by 2050 if left unchecked. To combat this global crisis, we need improved diagnostics to reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions.

Year:

2026

University:

Uppsala University

Responsible Researcher:

Prof. Maria Tenje, Co-founder and Board MemberProf. Dan I Andersson, Co-founder and Board MemberPärlan Fritz, Co-founder and Chairman of the BoardDr. Sagar Agnihotri, Co-founderDr. Nikos Kavalopoulos, Co-founder

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A particularly challenging type of resistance to detect is heteroresistance, where a small resistant subpopulation exists even though the overall bacterial population appears susceptible in standard AST. Heteroresistance is common across many bacterial species and antibiotic classes and is linked to up to 7-fold higher risk of rehospitalisation and death. Today, it is frequently missed because standard diagnostic workflows lack sufficient sensitivity.The RAREST® technology utilises droplet-based microfluidics and can detect heteroresistance within the clinical decision window (12–24 hrs). RAREST® could enable rapid therapy adjustments, supporting antibiotic stewardship, improving treatment decisions, and ultimately saving patient lives.