Narrowing the spectrum: the new frontier of precision antimicrobials

Genome Med. 2017 Dec 14;9(1):110. doi: 10.1186/s13073-017-0504-3.

Abstract

Antibiotics have become the standard of care for bacterial infections. However, rising rates of antibiotic-resistant infections are outpacing the development of new antimicrobials. Broad-spectrum antibiotics also harm beneficial microbial communities inhabiting humans. To combat antibiotic resistance and protect these communities, new precision antimicrobials must be engineered to target specific pathogens.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Infective Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Infective Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Infective Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Bacterial Infections / drug therapy
  • Gastrointestinal Microbiome / drug effects*
  • Humans
  • Precision Medicine / methods*

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents