Decoding the Molecular Architecture of Antimicrobial Resistance: Pathways to Next-Generation Therapeutics
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global health challenge driven by the ability of microorganisms to adapt and survive antimicrobial exposure. This lecture reviews the main molecular mechanisms of AMR, including antibiotic inactivation, target modification, reduced permeability, active efflux, biofilm formation, and horizontal gene transfer. It also discusses emerging strategies such as antibiotic–adjuvant combinations, membrane permeabilization, Nano-technology, quorum-sensing inhibition, and quorum quenching. Particular attention will be given to CRISPR-Cas technology as a powerful molecular tool for studying, detecting, and potentially eliminating specific antimicrobial resistance genes. The lecture will also highlight the role of artificial intelligence in predicting resistance mechanisms and discovering novel antimicrobial therapies. Together, these approaches offer promising opportunities to combat AMR and preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobial agents.