Current Knowledge on CRISPR Strategies Against Antimicrobial-Resistant Bacteria.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Biotechnology
• Genetics

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat.
• CRISPR/Cas systems offer novel strategies to combat AMR.
• Bacteria and fungi are crucial sources for novel antibiotic discovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review CRISPR/Cas applications in treating antimicrobial resistance.
• To explore CRISPR/Cas roles in discovering new antibiotics from natural products.
• To highlight the utility of CRISPR/Cas in understanding microbial biosynthesis and regulation.

Main Methods:

• CRISPR/Cas systems targeting bacterial plasmids and chromosomes.
• Delivery of CRISPR/Cas components via nanoparticles or bacteriophages.
• Activation of silent biosynthetic gene clusters in antibiotic-producing bacteria (e.g., Streptomyces).

Main Results:

• CRISPR/Cas effectively sensitizes or lyses AMR bacteria.
• CRISPR/Cas facilitates the discovery of new antibiotics from uncharacterized natural products.
• CRISPR/Cas provides insights into metabolic regulation and biosynthetic pathways in bacteria and fungi.

Conclusions:

• CRISPR/Cas platforms are versatile tools for tackling antimicrobial resistance.
• CRISPR/Cas significantly contributes to natural product discovery and strain improvement.
• Further research using CRISPR/Cas will enhance antibiotic development and production.