Recently, scientists have developed a novel approach to rejuvenate the potency of existing antibiotics. This technique utilises antibiotic adjuvants alongside traditional antibiotics to neutralize resistance. Adjuvants are non-antibiotic compounds that amplify antibiotic activity by either blocking resistance or enhancing the host’s response to infection.
In their research, scientists incorporated cyclic hydrophobic moieties (portions of a molecule) in a triamine-containing compound. This new development weakly impacts the bacteria’s membrane and helps to counteract its resistance mechanisms, which include decreased drug permeability, active efflux, alteration or bypass of the drug target, among others.
How Do Antibiotic Adjuvants Work?
Antibiotic adjuvants work by counteracting any membrane-associated resistance elements present in bacteria, such as permeability barriers and expulsion of antibiotics by efflux pumps. Efflux pumps reduce the concentration of antibiotics within the bacteria, which enables them to endure higher concentrations of antibiotics. When combined with antibiotics that have lost effectiveness due to these resistance elements, the adjuvants potentiate the antibiotics, making them more effective in killing bacteria.
The Significance of the Study
The strategy developed through this study has significant potential in combating highly resistant groups of bacteria. It allows for the reuse of existing antibiotics to treat complicated infections. Furthermore, it can strengthen outdated antibiotics, bringing them back into use for treating severe infections. This study also plays a crucial role in mitigating the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
Understanding Antibiotics and Drug Resistance
Antibiotics are potent drugs that can eliminate biological organisms in the body without causing harm. They are commonly used to prevent infections during surgeries and for protecting patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, their overuse in the treatment of humans, animals, and plants can lead to drug resistance, where bacteria gradually adapt, rendering antibiotics less effective.
India’s Challenge with Antibiotics and Drug Resistance
India is identified as the world’s largest consumer of antibiotics, and the excessive usage has led to an unprecedented mutation within bacteria. Furthermore, the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria not only makes treatment challenging but also allows for its spread, leading to more complicated diseases, the need for stronger and expensive drugs, and ultimately, more deaths caused by bacterial infections.
Initiatives Related to Drug Resistance
Various initiatives have been undertaken in India and globally to combat AMR. In India, these include the National Programme on AMR containment, the National Action Plan on AMR, the AMR Surveillance and Research Network (AMRSN), AMR Research & International Collaboration, and the Antibiotic Stewardship Program.
Globally, significant efforts like World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) and the Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS) have been launched to raise awareness and inform strategies against antimicrobial resistance.
