Combating Antimicrobial Resistance: Innovative Strategies Using Peptides, Nanotechnology, Phages, Quorum Sensing Interference, and CRISPR-Cas Systems
Ana Cristina Jacobowski, Ana Paula de Araújo Boleti, Maurício V. Cruz, Kristiane Fanti Del Pino Santos, Lucas Rannier Melo de Andrade, Breno Emanuel Farias Frihling, Ludovico Migliolo, Patrícia Maria Guedes Paiva, Paulo Eduardo Teodoro, Larissa Pereira Ribeiro Teodoro, Maria Lı́gia Rodrigues Macedo
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as one of the most pressing global health challenges of our time. Alarming projections of increasing mortality from resistant infections highlight the urgent need for innovative solutions. While many candidates have shown promise in preliminary studies, they often encounter challenges in terms of efficacy and safety during clinical translation. This review examines cutting-edge approaches to combat AMR, with a focus on engineered antimicrobial peptides, functionalized nanoparticles, and advanced genomic therapies, including Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats-associated proteins (CRISPR-Cas systems) and phage therapy. Recent advancements in these fields are critically analyzed, with a focus on their mechanisms of action, therapeutic potential, and current limitations. Emphasis is given to strategies targeting biofilm disruption and quorum sensing interference, which address key mechanisms of resistance. By synthesizing current knowledge, this work provides researchers with a comprehensive framework for developing next-generation antimicrobials, highlighting the most promising approaches for overcoming AMR through rational drug design and targeted therapies. Ultimately, this review aims to bridge the gap between experimental innovation and clinical application, providing valuable insights for developing effective and resistance-proof antimicrobial agents.