Non-Canonical Host Intracellular Niche Links to New Antimicrobial Resistance Mechanism

Globally, infectious diseases are one of the leading causes of death among people of all ages. The development of antimicrobials to treat infectious diseases has been one of the most significant advances in medical history. Alarmingly, antimicrobial resistance is a widespread phenomenon that will, without intervention, make currently treatable infections once again deadly. In an era of widespread antimicrobial resistance, there is a constant and pressing need to develop new antibacterial drugs. Unraveling the underlying resistance mechanisms is critical to fight this crisis. In this review, we summarize some emerging evidence of the non-canonical intracellular life cycle of two priority antimicrobial-resistant bacterial pathogens: Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. The bacterial factors that modulate this unique intracellular niche and its implications in contributing to resistance are discussed. We then briefly discuss some recent research that focused on the promises of boosting host immunity as a combination therapy with antimicrobials to eradicate these two particular pathogens. Finally, we summarize the importance of various strategies, including surveillance and vaccines, in mitigating the impacts of antimicrobial resistance in general.

Automated summary

Infectious diseases are a major cause of death worldwide, and the development of antimicrobials has been a significant advancement in medicine. However, the widespread antimicrobial resistance poses a threat to our ability to treat infections effectively. This review focuses on the non-canonical intracellular life cycle of two antimicrobial-resistant bacterial pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus, and explores the implications of this unique intracellular niche in contributing to resistance. Additionally, the potential of boosting host immunity as a combination therapy and the importance of surveillance and vaccines in mitigating the impacts of antimicrobial resistance are discussed.