Antibiotic and Antifungal Advancements: Emerging Options and Innovative Combinations against MDR bacterial and fungal infections

Infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens lead to higher morbidity, mortality, extended hospital stays, and increased healthcare expenses. The World Health Organization has highlighted the rise of microbes resistant to current treatments as one of the most pressing global health threats. Predictions suggest that, in the absence of effective strategies, MDR infections could claim 10 million lives annually by 2050. Infections like MDR Gram-negative Enterobacterales, MRSA, and VRE are particularly challenging in hospital environments, especially for high-risk patients in ICUs. Here, MDR bacteria and fungi can severely exacerbate an already fragile health state. Additionally, the emergence of MDR Candida spp. strains in these settings is a growing concern. Addressing the proliferation of MDR pathogens requires advanced research and new methodologies in microbiology for rapid resistance detection, improved clinical diagnostics to prevent unnecessary antimicrobial treatments, and tailored pharmacological interventions that target specific resistance mechanisms while minimizing drug exposure and side effects. This Special Issue welcomes submissions of original research, reviews, and case studies focused on novel treatment methods against MDR bacteria and fungi, emphasizing new antibiotics and drug combinations.

11/04/2025