Drug-resistant tropical diseases have become a formidable challenge in the realm of global health, undermining the efficacy of conventional treatment regimens. These diseases, including malaria, dengue fever, and leishmaniasis, have shown varying degrees of resistance to existing therapies, necessitating a shift towards innovative drug discovery strategies. Recent studies have highlighted the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying drug resistance, yet the rapid evolution of resistant strains continues to outpace current therapeutic developments. While significant strides have been made in understanding these mechanisms, there remains a critical gap in translating this knowledge into effective treatments. The ongoing debate centers around the need for novel therapeutic approaches that can circumvent resistance and provide sustainable solutions. Despite advancements in high-throughput screening and computational drug design, the field still lacks comprehensive strategies that integrate these technologies with clinical applications. Addressing these gaps is crucial for developing effective interventions against drug-resistant tropical diseases.

This research topic aims to explore and highlight the evolving landscape of drug discovery in the context of drug-resistant tropical diseases. The primary objective is to identify and develop effective treatments for diseases that have developed resistance to current therapies. By fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers, this collection of articles seeks to accelerate the development of innovative strategies that can effectively overcome drug resistance. Key questions include understanding the mechanisms of resistance, identifying novel drug targets, and exploring alternative therapeutic modalities. The research will also test hypotheses related to the efficacy of combination therapies and the potential of repurposing existing drugs.

To gather further insights in the innovative strategies for drug discovery against drug-resistant tropical diseases, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Emerging Drug Resistance Mechanisms: Investigating the molecular and genetic basis of drug resistance in tropical diseases.
- Target Identification and Validation: Novel approaches to identifying and validating potential drug targets specific to drug-resistant strains.
- High-Throughput Screening Techniques: Innovative methodologies for rapidly screening compound libraries to identify promising drug candidates.
- Computational Drug Design: Utilizing computational tools and simulations to design drugs that target resistant pathogens.
- Natural Products and Ethnopharmacology: Exploring traditional medicines and natural compounds as potential sources of new drug leads.
- Alternative Therapeutic Modalities: Investigating non-conventional treatment approaches, such as immunotherapies and gene therapies.
- Repurposing Existing Drugs: Examining the potential of repurposing approved drugs for new therapeutic indications.
- Combination Therapies: Designing and evaluating combination therapies to overcome resistance and enhance treatment efficacy.
- Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics: Studying drug metabolism, distribution, and interactions to optimize treatment regimens.
- Clinical Translation and Challenges: Addressing the hurdles in translating promising drug candidates from the laboratory to clinical practice.
- Epidemiology of Drug Resistant Tropical Diseases from a One-Health Perspective.

Impact

Frontiers in Tropical Diseases

Antimicrobial Resistance

Neglected Tropical Diseases