Abstract

A REVIEW ARTICLE ON ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE: EMERGING THREATS AND NOVEL STRATEGIES

Gandikota Azeez*

ABSTRACT

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents one of the greatest challenges to global health in the 21st century, threatening the effectiveness of drugs used to treat bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections. Widespread and inappropriate use of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and agriculture has accelerated the emergence of resistant pathogens. Multidrug-resistant organisms such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), and extensively drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (XDR-TB) have significantly reduced treatment options, leading to increasedmorbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that AMR could result in 10 million deaths annually by 2050 if not addressed. The burden of AMR is not limited to bacteria; resistant fungal pathogens like Candida auris, artemisinin-resistant malaria parasites, and antiviral resistance in HIV and influenza further complicate the picture. The crisis is compounded by a stagnant pipeline for new antibiotics, regulatory challenges, and declining investment by pharmaceutical industries. Emerging solutions include novel antibiotics, bacteriophage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, CRISPR-based antimicrobials, and nanotechnology-driven drug delivery systems. Preventive approaches such as vaccination, improved infection control, rapid diagnostics, and antimicrobial stewardship programs are equally essential. Addressing AMR requires global collaboration through a "One Health" approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health. This review discusses the growing threats posed by AMR and highlights innovative strategies to combat it. Sustained research, international cooperation, and stewardship are vital to preserving antimicrobial efficacy and preventing the onset of a post-antibiotic era.

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