Beyond Susceptibility Testing: Innovative Approaches for MDR Pathogen Detection

Abstract

The development of drug resistant bacteria remains a serious concern to global health issues. This review article presents new ways of screening that have been developed by many scientists. The introduction of molecular assays including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) changed the landscape of currently available methods for detecting multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens which have the optimal accuracy and efficiency. However, phenotypic approaches such as antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), and MALDI-TOF MS are essential parts of the confirmation of the resistance mechanisms. CRISPR-Cas systems have initially been discovered as bacterial immune systems but in recent years they have become effective as well in the detection and treatment of MDR strains. Based on available literature, we identified the potential of these techniques for improving control and treatment of infections in clinical practice. Application of artificial intelligence in data analysis aimed at the rapid emergence of screening methods and novelties in the field of targeted antimicrobial therapy using the CRISPR-Cas systems. All such measures would in future enhance the fight against multidrug resistant pathogens and safety of the global population.