Minimizing potential resistance: the molecular view.
The major contribution of molecular biology to the study of antibiotic resistance has been the elucidation of nearly all biochemical mechanisms of resistance and the routes for dissemination of genetic information among bacteria. In this review, we consider the potential contribution of molecular biology to counteracting the evolution of resistant bacteria. In particular, we emphasize the fact that fundamental approaches have had direct practical effects on minimizing potential resistance: by improving interpretation of resistance phenotypes, by providing more adequate human therapy, by fostering more prudent use of antibiotics, and by allowing the rational design of new drugs that evade existing resistance mechanisms or address unexploited targets.
Courvalin
P
P
Unité des Agents Antibactériens, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France. pcourval@pasteur.fr
Trieu-Cuot
P
P
D000818:Animals; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D001419:Bacteria / Q000187:drug effects / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D024881:Drug Resistance, Bacterial / Q000235:genetics* / Q000502:physiology; D024901:Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial / Q000235:genetics* / Q000502:physiology; D024841:Fluoroquinolones; D006801:Humans; D011008:Pneumococcal Infections / Q000188:drug therapy; D012724:Sex Attractants / Q000378:metabolism; D013296:Streptococcus pneumoniae / Q000187:drug effects
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D024841:Fluoroquinolones; D012724:Sex Attractants