Application of antimicrobial drugs in Mycobacterium tuberculosis and research progress

Treatment regimens for Tuberculosis (TB) primarily rely on first-line drugs such as isoniazid, rifampicin, ethambutol, and pyrazinamide. Although these drugs have been pivotal in the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis, their high costs limit widespread use in low- and middle-income countries. However, the emergence of multidrug-resistant TB and extensively drug-resistant TB necessitates the development of new anti-TB drugs and therapeutic strategies. In terms of treatment, new drugs such as bedaquiline, delamanid, and pretomanid have shown significant efficacy against MDR-TB and XDR-TB. Combination therapies have substantially improved cure rates and reduced treatment duration. Despite these advancements, drug resistance and adverse effects remain substantial challenges. Understanding the resistant genes and biochemical mechanisms of M. tuberculosis, developing drugs that disrupt its biofilms, optimizing drug combinations, and personalizing treatments are crucial for reducing tuberculosis mortality and controlling its spread, thus achieving WHO's goal of global tuberculosis eradication. Future research should focus on improving drug accessibility and affordability, and making significantly contributions to global public health goals.