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The Use of a β-lactamase-based Conductimetric Biosensor Assay to Detect Biomolecular Interactions
Published on: February 1, 2018
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Metallo-β-Lactamases: Structure, Function, Epidemiology, Treatment Options, and the Development Pipeline
Sara E Boyd1,2, David M Livermore3, David C Hooper4
1Antimicrobial Pharmacodynamics and Therapeutics, Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom s.e.boyd@liverpool.ac.uk.
Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy
|July 22, 2020
Summary
Antibiotic resistance from Gram-negative bacteria is a growing threat. Metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) are concerning, but may be less effective in vivo, offering hope for new drug development.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Global rise of antibiotic resistance, particularly in Gram-negative bacteria.
- Metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) are a significant concern, with increasing worldwide dissemination, especially in Asia.
- MBL-producing bacteria often exhibit multidrug resistance, limiting treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the challenge posed by Metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) in antibiotic resistance.
- To discuss the development pipeline for new therapies targeting MBLs.
- To examine the epidemiology of MBL producers and current treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications on MBLs and antibiotic resistance.
- Analysis of MBL enzyme structure, function, and diversity.
- Evaluation of current and developing therapeutic strategies, including beta-lactam/inhibitor combinations.
Main Results:
- Metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) present a unique challenge for drug development due to their structure and diversity.
- MBLs evade currently licensed beta-lactam/inhibitor combinations.
- MBLs may be less effective in vivo under zinc limitation compared to in vitro.
- Several novel agents and inhibitor combinations are in development.
Conclusions:
- The unique characteristics of MBLs necessitate innovative approaches for effective treatment.
- Ongoing research and development offer promising new therapeutic avenues.
- Understanding MBL epidemiology is crucial for guiding treatment and control strategies.
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