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Fighting infection: an ongoing challenge, part 1
1Graduate Faculty-Advanced Practice Nursing, Kent State University College of Nursing, Kent, OH, USA.
Abstract:
Since the beginning of time, infections have been a major cause of disability and death of humans in every part of the world. For centuries, little was known about what caused infection, how to prevent infection, or how to cure infection. With the discovery of sulfa and penicillin in the 1930s, the ability to fight infection became reality. During the next six decades, antimicrobials were developed to fight bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. It truly seemed as if the battle against infection was won, until the rapid and global spread of drug resistance began to threaten the effectiveness of all currently available antimicrobials. A new phase of the war against infection began, and the search for methods of reducing the spread of drug resistance began. Today, it is apparent that identifying the agents of infection, understanding how antimicrobials are targeted against specific infectious organisms, and practicing the judicious application of antimicrobials will help reduce the threat of continued escalation of antimicrobial resistance. Part 1 of this three-part series will provide an overview of how antimicrobials are designed to target specific agents of infection and how drug resistance develops. Parts 2 and 3 will examine individual antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agents and the recommendations for their appropriate use.
Insights
Antimicrobial drugs revolutionized infection treatment, but rising drug resistance now threatens their effectiveness. Understanding antimicrobial action and judicious use are key to combating this growing public health challenge.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Infections have historically caused significant human mortality and morbidity worldwide.
- The development of sulfa drugs and penicillin in the 1930s marked a turning point in combating infections.
- The subsequent decades saw the creation of antimicrobials for bacterial, fungal, and viral infections, seemingly leading to victory over infectious diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of antimicrobial drug design and mechanisms of action against specific infectious agents.
- To explain the development and mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance.
- To lay the groundwork for subsequent discussions on specific antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral agents and their appropriate use.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical developments in antimicrobial discovery and application.
- Explanation of the principles of antimicrobial targeting of specific pathogens.
- Analysis of the mechanisms underlying the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance.
Main Results:
- Antimicrobial drug resistance has emerged as a significant global threat, jeopardizing the efficacy of existing treatments.
- Identifying infectious agents, understanding targeted antimicrobial action, and promoting judicious antimicrobial use are crucial for mitigating resistance.
- This series will explore the design of antimicrobials, resistance development, and specific drug classes.
Conclusions:
- The rise of antimicrobial resistance necessitates a new phase in the fight against infections.
- A comprehensive understanding of antimicrobial mechanisms and resistance is vital for future therapeutic strategies.
- Judicious use of antimicrobials is paramount to preserve their effectiveness and combat the escalating threat of resistance.
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