The origins of the antimicrobial resistance crisis and emerging solutions

Edited by: JON ARIZTI SANZ1 AND DYLAN M. MCCORMICK2

Antimicrobial-resistant infections, already responsible for millions of deaths every year, are increasing worldwide. To tackle this crisis, a growing number of institutions, both public and private, have come together to implement policies that aim to curb the spread of antimicrobial-resistant disease. The resulting policy network has culminated in several tangible effects, including increased education on correct antibiotic use, improved support structures for the development of AMR therapeutics, global public health efforts to specifically help low- and middle-income countries gain access to better diagnostic and care facilities, and the growth of promising new treatments for antimicrobial-resistant disease. The following review provides background on AMR and outlines the progress in developing policies and technologies to combat rising cases of antimicrobial-resistant infections.

Highlights

1. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a complex issue that will require coordination across economic sectors and national borders for effective solutions.

2. Supporting educational interventions and strengthening regulations on antimicrobials can help prevent the rise of resistance caused by overuse of these drugs.

3. Low- and middle-income countries face unique challenges with regard to AMR that require careful consideration.

4. Economic incentives can be a key factor in facilitating the translation of novel academic AMR research into clinics.

5. There are several potential alternatives to traditional antimicrobials that show promise, including phage therapy, the use of antimicrobial peptides, and microbiome therapy.

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