Advanced Multidisciplinary Research for Antimicrobial Resistance

We are proposing a 4-year program of knowledge transfer and networking between academic institutions [University of Leicester (UK), University of Valencia (Spain), International Iberian Nanotechnology Lab (Portugal), University of Bologna (Italy), University of Aveiro (Portugal), Fudan University (China), and Alfred University (USA)] and industrial partners [Teer Coatings Ltd (UK)].

The objective of the proposed joint exchange programme is to establish long-term stable research cooperation between the partners with interdisciplinary expertise and knowledge to develop Advanced Multidisciplinary Research for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMRAMR), including the development of novel antibacterial nanomaterials and nanostructures, novel antibacterial thin films coatings, upconversion technology for AMR applications, photonics technology for AMR application, and evaluation of the antibacterial performance and antimicrobial resistance; the synergetic effect for the above approaches to understanding antimicrobial resistance.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) refers to the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs, such as antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics.

AMR is a serious global public health threat that could lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared that AMR is one of the top 10 global public health threats facing humanity.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of AMR as it has led to increased use of antimicrobial drugs, particularly antibiotics, which can contribute to the development of AMR.

People with COVID-19 may develop secondary bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, and may be prescribed antibiotics to treat these infections.

However, unnecessary use of antibiotics can lead to the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria, making it more difficult to treat infections in the future.