Drug resistance and current challenges to overcome

Mrunmayi Kakde*

Santa Gadge Baba Amaravti University, Amaravti, Maharashtra, India

Refer this article

Mrunmayi Kakde. Drug resistance and current challenges to overcome. International journal of therapeutic innovation, July-August 2023, V 1 - I 1, Pages - 0031 – 0037. Doi: https://doi.org/10.55522/ijti.V1I1.0011.

ABSTRACT

Drug resistance is a formidable obstacle in medicine, hindering the efficacy of treatments against pathogens and cancer cells. Grasping the mechanisms responsible for drug resistance is essential to devising effective solutions. This comprehensive review explores various resistance mechanisms, encompassing genetic mutations, drug efflux pumps, altered drug targets, and enhanced DNA repair mechanisms. Genetic mutations can modify drug target proteins or metabolic pathways, reducing drug effectiveness. Drug efflux pumps expel drugs from cells, lowering their concentration and effectiveness. Altered drug targets can result from mutations or modifications, diminishing drug binding or interactions. Enhanced DNA repair mechanisms further contribute to drug resistance by efficiently fixing drug-induced DNA damage. To combat drug resistance, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Strategies include combination therapies, innovative drugs targeting resistant pathways, and precision medicine. However, challenges persist, such as the emergence of new resistance mechanisms and limited comprehension of their interplay. A multidisciplinary approach, involving molecular biology, pharmacology, and computational modeling, is vital to surmount drug resistance and enhance patient outcomes. This review emphasizes the significance of ongoing efforts to tackle this global healthcare problem.

Keywords:

Drug resistance, Drug efflux, Antibiotic stewardship programs, Bacterial biofilms, CRISPR, Vaccine development