Mechanisms ProtectingAcinetobacter baumanniiagainst Multiple Stresses Triggered by the Host Immune Response, Antibiotics and Outside-Host Environment

Acinetobacter baumanniiis considered one of the most persistent pathogens responsible for nosocomial infections. Due to the emergence of multidrug resistant strains, as well as high morbidity and mortality caused by this pathogen,A. baumanniiwas placed on the World Health Organization (WHO) drug-resistant bacteria and antimicrobial resistance research priority list. This review summarizes current studies on mechanisms that protectA. baumanniiagainst multiple stresses caused by the host immune response, outside host environment, and antibiotic treatment. We particularly focus on the ability ofA. baumanniito survive long-term desiccation on abiotic surfaces and the population heterogeneity inA. baumanniibiofilms. Insight into these protective mechanisms may provide clues for the development of new strategies to fight multidrug resistant strains ofA. baumannii.