COMBATING THE ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE BY PERSONALIZED MEDICINE: A MINI-REVIEW

Abstract

The emergence of drug-resistant microorganisms has resulted in the reduced effectiveness of traditional antimicrobial therapies. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacterial infections as a significant global health crisis. If effective measures are not established by 2050, it is projected that annual deaths from diseases caused by drug-resistant bacteria could reach up to 10 million people. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) arises due to the transfer of bacteria and genes among humans, animals, and the environment. While there are inherent barriers that impede the unrestricted movement of bacteria and genes, the acquisition of new resistance factors from various species is a common occurrence. This phenomenon undermines our capacity to effectively prevent and treat bacterial infections, posing significant challenges. The core of the problem lies in the evolution of pathogens, which enables bacteria to rapidly adapt to the selective pressures imposed by the use of antimicrobials in medical and agricultural settings. This adaptation encourages the spread of resistance genes or alleles within bacterial populations. To combat these challenges, there is a growing focus on the development of precision antimicrobial treatments that target the key virulence characteristics of individual infections. This approach aims to tailor treatment to specific infections, considering their unique characteristics. In this article, we explore the benefits, advancements, and challenges associated with the development of precision antimicrobial medicines. The goal is to enhance our ability to effectively combat drug-resistant bacteria and mitigate the impact ofAMR on global health.