Evolution and Spread of Drug-Resistant Pathogens
A special issue of Microorganisms (ISSN 2076-2607). This special issue belongs to the section "Antimicrobial Agents and Resistance".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 19 December 2025 | Viewed by 440
Special Issue Editors
Interests: epidemiology and mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance
Interests: carbapenems; microbial sensitivity tests; Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Over the past decades, the evolution of resistant pathogens has intensified alarmingly, driven by the excessive and inappropriate use of antimicrobials in human medicine, animal production, and agriculture. This scenario has favored the emergence of so-called “superbugs” — microorganisms capable of resisting multiple classes of antibiotics, including those considered last-resort treatments, such as carbapenems and colistin. These pathogens adapt rapidly through mechanisms like genetic mutations and horizontal gene transfer, enabling resistance traits to spread across species and environments.
The transcontinental spread of these resistant organisms has become a critical concern for global public health. International travel, food trade, and the movement of animals and people contribute to the dissemination of resistance genes across countries and continents, making it increasingly difficult to contain outbreaks and implement effective control measures. In this context, surveillance, monitoring, and research are essential tools. The One Health approach is fundamental in addressing this complex issue.
The aim of this Special Issue of Microorganisms, entitled "Evolution and Spread of Drug-Resistant Pathogens", is to present a collection of articles that provide an up-to-date and comprehensive overview of scientific advances related to antimicrobial resistance. In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Manuscripts covering all aspects of the evolution and dissemination of resistant pathogens are welcome, including molecular mechanisms of resistance, epidemiological surveillance, public health impacts, prevention and control strategies, and innovative approaches to diagnosis, treatment, and antimicrobial stewardship. Submissions focusing on One Health perspectives that integrate human, animal, and environmental health are especially encouraged.
I look forward to receiving your contributions,
Prof. Dr. Marcos Paulo Vieira Cunha
Guest Editor
Dr. Elena Bello-López
Guest Editor Assistant
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
- food-borne pathogens
- superbugs
- one health
- horizontal gene transfer
- mobile genetic elements (MGEs)
- surveillance and monitoring
- resistant pathogens outbreaks
- resistance mechanisms
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