An Overview of the Recent Advances in Antimicrobial Resistance

Affiliations.

  • 1 Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University Institute of Health Sciences-CESPU, Avenida Central de Gandra 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal.
  • 2 UCIBIO-Research Unit on Applied Molecular Biosciences, Translational Toxicology Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), Avenida Central de Gandra 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal.
  • 3 Instituto Universitário Militar, CINAMIL, Unidade Militar Laboratorial de Defesa Biológica e Química, Avenida Doutor Alfredo Bensaúde, 4 piso, do LNM, 1849-012 Lisbon, Portugal.
  • 4 ULSEDV-Unidade Local De Saúde De Entre Douro Vouga, Unidade de Santa Maria da Feira e Hospital S. Sebastião, Rua Dr. Cândido Pinho, 4520-211 Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal.
  • 5 UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Forensics and Biomedical Sciences Research Laboratory, University Institute of Health Sciences (1H-TOXRUN, IUCS-CESPU), Avenida Central de Gandra 1317, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal.
  • 6 Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal.
  • 7 FOREN-Forensic Science Experts, Avenida Dr. Mário Moutinho 33-A, 1400-136 Lisbon, Portugal.
  • 8 REQUIMTE/LAQV, ESS, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
  • 9 Associate Laboratory i4HB-Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
  • 10 UCIBIO-Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
  • PMID: 39338594
  • PMCID: PMC11434382
  • DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12091920

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), frequently considered a major global public health threat, requires a comprehensive understanding of its emergence, mechanisms, advances, and implications. AMR's epidemiological landscape is characterized by its widespread prevalence and constantly evolving patterns, with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) creating new challenges every day. The most common mechanisms underlying AMR (i.e., genetic mutations, horizontal gene transfer, and selective pressure) contribute to the emergence and dissemination of new resistant strains. Therefore, mitigation strategies (e.g., antibiotic stewardship programs-ASPs-and infection prevention and control strategies-IPCs) emphasize the importance of responsible antimicrobial use and surveillance. A One Health approach (i.e., the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health) highlights the necessity for interdisciplinary collaboration and holistic strategies in combating AMR. Advancements in novel therapeutics (e.g., alternative antimicrobial agents and vaccines) offer promising avenues in addressing AMR challenges. Policy interventions at the international and national levels also promote ASPs aiming to regulate antimicrobial use. Despite all of the observed progress, AMR remains a pressing concern, demanding sustained efforts to address emerging threats and promote antimicrobial sustainability. Future research must prioritize innovative approaches and address the complex socioecological dynamics underlying AMR. This manuscript is a comprehensive resource for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals seeking to navigate the complex AMR landscape and develop effective strategies for its mitigation.

Keywords: One Health approach; antibiotic stewardship programs; antimicrobial resistance; epidemiology; mechanisms; novel therapeutics; policy interventions.

Publication types

Grants and funding.

  • UIDP/04378/2020, UIDB/04378/2020, LA/P/0140/2020, UIDB/50006/Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia

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