Antimicrobial Resistance: A Risk Factor for the Biosafety System

Scientific relevance . In recent years, antimicrobial resistance in pathogenic microorganisms has become a global problem that threatens the health of humans and animals and poses a risk to the biosafety of Russia. Aim. The study aimed to analyse the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance, consider the risks and medical consequences of this biological phenomenon, and suggest ways to optimise the use of existing antimicrobial agents and search for new ones. Discussion. The emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a natural biological process; the selection of resistant microorganisms occurs constantly with the use of the entire spectrum of antimicrobial agents in healthcare, agriculture, and other fields. The World Health Organisation (WHO) monitors these processes using the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System (GLASS). Russia has adopted the Strategy to prevent the spread of antimicrobial resistance in the Russian Federation to 2030. The country has established a regulatory framework that supports the operation of the national antimicrobial resistance prevention system. The strategy to prevent the spread of antimicrobial resistance is being implemented through making organisational arrangements and developing novel medicines with mechanisms of action based on an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of infection and resistance. This review considers the main approaches to designing exploratory studies and evaluating the antimicrobial activity of the innovative molecules obtained. The rapid development of synthetic biology increases the likelihood of creating synthetic biological pathogens with high virulence and resistance to antimicrobial agents, which might pose risks of artificial epidemics. Conclusions. The antimicrobial resistance prevention system in Russia should be considered a strategically essential medical technology ensuring the biosafety of the country and the people.