Addressing antimicrobial resistance: Current challenges, emerging strategies, and an AI-powered, community-driven approach

Abstract

The rising incidence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has threatened global public health with a high mortality rate. In parallel, the de-incentivization for further investment, regulatory constraints, and overuse/misuse of antibiotics have accelerated the progression of AMR. Together, these factors have contributed to declining efficacy of a wide spectrum of antibiotics and the increasing prevalence of drug resistance that outpaced AMR-specific drug development. More importantly, even with substantial historical investments in antibiotic discovery over several decades, the development of clinically actionable, novel antibiotics has remained limited. In this article, we present the challenges of addressing AMR and outline emerging strategies that may reduce its burden. While advanced therapies, including bacteriophage therapy, have demonstrated promising results, complementary strategies that integrate emerging technologies and engage diverse stakeholders are needed. Building on this vision, we propose the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI)-powered platforms in supporting and accelerating AMR-specific drug development alongside a community-driven approach that engages scientists, policy makers, health economists, clinicians, and patients to help address existing scientific and translational challenges. Furthermore, this article offers an inclusive strategy with key considerations including educational and public health interventions, government-led programs, and health economics, which together could potentially tackle the threat of AMR along with AI-powered solutions.