[Preface for special issue on antimicrobial resistance]

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Public Health
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Antibiotics are vital for treating bacterial infections.
• Extensive antibiotic use has accelerated the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• AMR poses significant medical, social, and economic challenges, impacting public health and food safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in antimicrobial resistance research.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of AMR challenges and solutions.
• To identify future research directions and control strategies for AMR.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of current research on antimicrobial resistance.
• Discussion of findings across clinical, epidemiological, animal, and environmental domains.
• Analysis of drug resistance mechanisms and antimicrobial drug development.

Main Results:

• The review highlights the multifaceted nature of AMR, spanning clinical and environmental contexts.
• It examines various mechanisms contributing to drug resistance.
• Progress in antimicrobial drug development and control strategies is discussed.

Conclusions:

• Antimicrobial resistance requires a multi-pronged approach involving clinical, environmental, and developmental strategies.
• Understanding resistance mechanisms is crucial for effective prevention and control.
• Continued research and global cooperation are essential to combat AMR.