October 2023 Issue of Microbiology Today Now Available to Read Online
17 October 2023
The latest edition of Microbiology Today is now available to read online. This issue, titled 'Knocking Out AMR,' explores some of the challenges and most recent advancements within antimicrobial resistance (AMR) research.
The first featured article, authored by Jane Freeman, National Clinical Lead for AMR Diagnostics at NHS England, is focused on the potential of rapid infection diagnostics. These diagnostics hold the promise of enabling more targeted antibiotic usage as opposed to reliance on empirical ('best guess') strategies. The article underscores the importance of these diagnostics in safeguarding our existing antibiotics.
The second featured article by Chris Longshaw of Shionogi offers an insightful perspective on AMR from the vantage point of the pharmaceutical industry. Longshaw delves into the historical challenges in antibiotic discovery faced by major pharmaceutical entities and how they lead to a redirection of research emphasis and investment away from the field. Chris concludes his contribution by guiding us through the diverse 'PUSH' and 'PULL' initiatives devised to stimulate antibiotic research and development, with the aim of reinvigorating industrial engagement.
In third featured article, we embark on a journey with Anderson Oaikhena, Dorothy Cyril-Okoh, Chinenye Ekemezie, and the 2023 Peter Wildy Prize laureate, Iruka Okeke. They provide insight into their multifaceted outreach initiatives situated in Ibadan, Nigeria. While Professor Okeke's laboratory is dedicated to antimicrobial resistance research and surveillance in Nigeria, they also recognise the significance of outreach programs in communication and education.
A comment piece from Martha Clokie, Director of the recently established Centre for Phage Research, concludes this edition. The historical role of bacteriophages in combating bacterial infections has, until recently, received limited clinical attention in the Western world. However, Martha observes a notable transformation in this landscape, driven by the escalating threat of AMR and advances in 'omics' and related technologies. Phage therapy is emerging as a compelling alternative to antibiotics, with substantial shifts in clinical interest.
This issue also includes details on Society activities, including an update from the Members Panel, Q&A’s with Society journal Editors including Fiona Walsh, Andrew Preston, and Danielle Ingle, a member Q&A with Alain Richard, and much more.
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