Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global health threat, necessitating the exploration of alternative strategies to combat microbial pathogens. Biosurfactants, natural compounds produced by microorganisms, have emerged as promising candidates due to their diverse biological activities and sustainable properties. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of biosurfactants' potential as sustainable solutions for overcoming AMR and mitigating drug adverse effects. We discuss the mechanisms of action of biosurfactants against microbial pathogens, highlighting their ability to disrupt cell membranes, inhibit biofilm formation, and modulate immune responses. Furthermore, we explore the biocompatibility and eco-friendly nature of biosurfactants, underscoring their advantages over synthetic drugs. However, challenges such as limited scalability and variability in production hinder their widespread adoption in pharmaceutical applications. We propose interdisciplinary research efforts to address these challenges and optimize the use of biosurfactants in combating AMR and minimizing drug adverse effects. Through collaborative initiatives and innovative approaches, biosurfactants hold immense promise as sustainable alternatives to conventional antimicrobial agents, paving the way for a healthier and more resilient future.
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Sivakumar et al. (2024) studied this question.
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