Engineering Opportunities to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a multidisciplinary problem that requires interdisciplinary solutions. To develop effective treatments and preventative measures, fundamental concepts within biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering must be combined in a translatable manner. Engineering research could bridge the gap between fundamental principles and successful implementation into tangible and scalable treatments and tools that both patients and clinicians can use.

The priorities discussed in this report describe the innovative research needed to prevent or halt the progression of AMR and its consequences in the lives of patients. Engineering research enabling new preventive and therapeutic approaches can significantly contribute to addressing this global challenge. Research into the following overarching areas is needed to generate and implement novel solutions that treat AMR-related infections and prevent the future development and spread of AMR: Diagnostic Biosensors and Wearables, Engineered Antimicrobial Surfaces, Smart Biomaterials, Cell Engineering for Drug-Free Approaches, and Advanced Modeling Approaches.

There is an urgent need to identify and implement novel solutions that treat AMR-related infections and prevent the future development and spread of AMR. At the Feb. 6-7, 2024 visioning event convened by ERVA, 55 researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers representing a broad range of expertise met to create a roadmap of innovative, less-explored lines of multidisciplinary engineering research that can transform efforts to mitigate AMR. This report illuminates the engineering priorities identified during this event, and aims to inspire researchers and funders (public, private, and nonprofit) to support and pursue them.

Keywords: antibacterial resistance, cell engineering, smart biomaterials, antimicrobial surfaces, antimicrobial medica; devices