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Virulence Characteristics and Emerging Therapies for Biofilm-Forming Acinetobacter baumannii: A Review

Karma G Dolma1, Rachana Khati1, Alok K Paul2

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences, Sikkim Manipal University, Gangtok 737102, Sikkim, India.

Biology
|September 23, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Acinetobacter species, particularly Acinetobacter baumannii, are dangerous hospital-acquired pathogens. Their ability to form biofilms drives multidrug resistance and chronic infections, necessitating a review of current treatments and future therapeutic strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Antimicrobial Resistance

Background:

  • Acinetobacter species are significant nosocomial pathogens, frequently causing infections linked to medical devices.
  • Acinetobacter baumannii exhibits extensive resistance to multiple antibiotics, posing a major clinical challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive review of Acinetobacter species, focusing on Acinetobacter baumannii.
  • To discuss taxonomy, pathogenesis, biofilm formation, and antimicrobial resistance mechanisms.
  • To explore current treatment strategies, global resistance rates, and future therapeutic avenues.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Acinetobacter species, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm formation.
  • Analysis of physiological and virulence factors contributing to biofilm production.
  • Synthesis of information on global resistance patterns and therapeutic options.

Main Results:

  • Acinetobacter species, especially A. baumannii, are highly resistant due to biofilm synthesis.
  • Biofilms are critical for pathogen survival in harsh environments and chronic infection development.
  • Multiple factors contribute to biofilm formation and maintenance in Acinetobacter.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding Acinetobacter's resistance mechanisms and biofilm strategies is crucial for effective treatment.
  • Novel therapeutic approaches are needed to combat multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter infections.
  • Continued research into Acinetobacter pathogenesis and resistance is essential for public health.
Keywords:
Acinetobacter baumanniiantimicrobialbiofilmmicroorganismsmultidrug-resistancetherapeutics

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