Outer Membrane Permeability Enhancer

Abstract

Bacterial resistance poses a significant threat to global healthcare systems and requires innovative solutions to combat this growing problem. In this context, the concept of outer membrane permeability enhancers has emerged as a promising strategy. The gram-negative bacteria's outer membrane acts as a robust defense mechanism, limiting the effectiveness of antibiotics. The introduction of outer membrane permeability enhancers aims to address this challenge by enhancing the permeability of the outer membrane, thus facilitating the entry of antibiotics into bacterial cells. In this chapter, the authors explore the intricacies of outer membrane permeability enhancers like EDTA, polymyxins, aminoglycosides, and tris or tris (hydroxymethyl) aminomethane and their potential impact on bacterial resistance. The outer membrane's composition, comprising lipopolysaccharides, proteins, and phospholipids, creates a formidable barrier that many antibiotics struggle to penetrate.