Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health. A worldwide action plan issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) aims to improve awareness of antimicrobial resistance, support R&D in the area and ensure sustainable investment to reduce the incidence of infection. Held annually since 2015, World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (18th November 2021 – 24th November 2021) supports this global action plan, with an aim to increase knowledge and encourage best practice.
WHO have identified 12 species of bacteria with critical, high and medium antibiotic resistance, including MRSA. Other strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are also know biofilm formers. Research has found that biofilms are generally more resistant to antimicrobial chemotherapies than free-living bacteria. A biofilm is a complex structure, with different bacterial colonies embedded in the matrix that adheres to a surface. The failure of antibacterial agents to rapidly penetrate into all areas of a biofilm has been considered as a contributing factor to biofilm resistance. When microorganisms live beneath a biofilm, they are also significantly less susceptible to the host’s immune system.
The battle against antimicrobial resistance is not only fought with better hygiene and the regulation of proper use of antibiotics, but there is also a dire need for investment into developing new antibiotics. Over prescription and overuse of antimicrobials have contributed to rising levels of pathogens resistant to the current arsenal of antimicrobial products. A critical step in the drug-development process is antimicrobial effectiveness testing. At Perfectus Biomed Group, we give you the confidence in your lead candidates by assessing your products in our predictive models, thus de-risking-clinical trials. Perfectus Biomed scientists are sector leaders in the customization and adaptation of In vitro and Ex vivo studies. Our data is globally recognized by regulatory bodies and can be carried out to GLP as requested.
For more information on our full testing capabilities (including our UKAS accredited biofilm models) please contact us today.