The Antimicrobial Index: a comprehensive literature-based antimicrobial database and reference work
Vafa David Amirkia1, Pan Qiubao
1TOKU-E Company, Research and Development Division, 150 Cecil St. #16-00, Singapore 069543.
Abstract:
Although the ever-growing usage of antimicrobials in the fields of medicine, pharmacology, and microbiology have undoubtedly allowed for unprecedented advances in the scientific world, these advances are nevertheless accompanied by unprecedented challenges. Sharp increases in antibiotic usages have led to inefficient and wasteful usage practices. Bacterial resistances have dramatically increased and therefore hindered the effectiveness of traditional antibiotics, thus forcing many life-science professionals to turn to plant extracts and synthetic chemicals [1]. The Antimicrobial Index (TAMI) seeks to alleviate some of these mounting difficulties through the collection and centralization of relevant antimicrobial susceptibility data from journals. Data compiled for antimicrobials include: method of action, physical properties, resistance genes, side effects, and minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC50, MIC90 and/or ranges). TAMI currently contains data on 960 antimicrobials and over 24,000 microorganisms (3,500 unique strains) which were collected from over 400 pieces of published literature. Volume and scope of the index have been and will continue to increase and it is hoped that such an index will further foster international cooperation and communication of antimicrobial-related knowledge. TAMI can be accessed at: http://antibiotics.toku-e.com/.
Insights
The Antimicrobial Index (TAMI) centralizes antimicrobial susceptibility data to combat rising bacterial resistance. This comprehensive database aids researchers by consolidating information on antimicrobials and microorganisms, promoting knowledge sharing.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Medicinal Chemistry
Background:
- Increasing antimicrobial usage presents challenges like antibiotic resistance and inefficient practices.
- Growing bacterial resistance necessitates exploring alternative antimicrobials, including plant extracts and synthetic chemicals.
- Existing antimicrobial data is fragmented across various scientific publications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce The Antimicrobial Index (TAMI) as a centralized resource for antimicrobial susceptibility data.
- To provide a comprehensive database for researchers investigating antimicrobial resistance and efficacy.
- To foster international cooperation and knowledge exchange in antimicrobial research.
Main Methods:
- Data compilation from over 400 published scientific articles.
- Inclusion of detailed antimicrobial information: mechanism of action, physical properties, resistance genes, side effects, and minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC50, MIC90, ranges).
- Cataloging data for 960 antimicrobials and over 24,000 microorganisms, including 3,500 unique strains.
Main Results:
- TAMI currently houses data on 960 antimicrobials and over 24,000 microorganisms.
- The index aggregates critical antimicrobial data points, facilitating easier access and analysis.
- The database is continuously expanding in volume and scope.
Conclusions:
- TAMI serves as a valuable centralized resource to address challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance.
- The index aims to enhance research efficiency and support the development of novel antimicrobial strategies.
- Continued growth and accessibility of TAMI are expected to promote global collaboration in antimicrobial science.
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