HARNESSING VACCINES AND MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES TO TACKLE ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Background: The management of bacterial and viral infections has become increasingly difficult due to the rapid emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which compromises the effectiveness of existing therapies and poses a major global health threat. Objectives: This review aims to examine the key drivers of AMR, outline the mechanisms of action of antimicrobial agents and the molecular pathways leading to resistance, and evaluate the potential of vaccines and monoclonal antibodies as alternative and complementary strategies to combat AMR. Methodology: A structured literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Peer-reviewed articles addressing vaccines and monoclonal antibodies as interventions against AMR were included. Studies describing various vaccine platforms targeting infectious pathogens and laboratory-developed monoclonal antibodies providing passive immunization were critically analyzed. Data were synthesized to assess their mechanisms of action, clinical effectiveness, and potential impact on reducing antimicrobial use and resistance. Results: AMR may be intrinsic (natural) or acquired through genetic mutations and horizontal gene transfer. The misuse and overuse of antimicrobial agents, along with biological, environmental, and socioeconomic factors, significantly accelerate resistance development. Reduced antimicrobial efficacy leads to increased morbidity, mortality, prolonged hospital stays, and rising healthcare costs worldwide. Both developed and developing countries are severely affected. Conclusions: Vaccines and monoclonal antibodies represent promising strategies to mitigate AMR by preventing infections and reducing dependence on conventional antimicrobial agents. Vaccines provide long-term protective immunity, while monoclonal antibodies offer targeted and immediate immune defense. Integrating these approaches into public health strategies may help curb the global burden of antimicrobial resistance.