Extending the Potency and Lifespan of Antibiotics: Inhibitors of Gram-Negative Bacterial Efflux Pumps

Efflux, a natural process in all cells, is a key resistance mechanism for multidrug-resistant bacteria. Chemical inhibition of efflux pumps has been a promising approach for antimicrobial chemotherapy. Over 50 efflux inhibitors target these systems, but none have been clinically used due to formulation, toxicity, and pharmacokinetic issues. Recent computational tools and molecular docking models offer hope for further research on efflux inhibitors, potentially serving as a platform for new bacterial efflux inhibitors.