SCREENING APPROACHES FOR ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS: AN OVERVIEW OF METHODS

There are various screening methods which are used to evaluate antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic agents for treating various infections. These methods include both traditional observational methods and advanced techniques. For antibacterial and antifungal agents, the focus is on high-throughput methods that assess bacterial and fungal growth and viability. Antiviral screening methods involve testing compounds that inhibit viral replication and infection, employing cell culture systems and cytopathic effect assays. The review details susceptibility testing methods for parasitic infestations, tailored to specific parasites. For Plasmodium species, assays like radioactive hypoxanthine incorporation and SYBR Green staining are used to determine drug efficacy. Leishmania and Trypanosoma species are assessed through colorimetric assays and flow cytometry for intracellular amastigotes. Giardia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Cryptosporidium are evaluated using image-based high-throughput screens and ATP content-based bioluminescence assays. Schistosoma species are tested using automated methods like impedance-based mobility measurement and fluorescence assays. Filarial parasites are screened for drug efficacy using traditional motility observation and advanced software like WormAssay. These screening methods are critical for identifying effective treatments for infections, significantly contributing to ongoing efforts in managing and treating infectious diseases. The review highlights the diversity and specificity of screening methods required for different types of infections, underscoring their role in the discovery and evaluation of new antimicrobial agents. By providing a comprehensive overview of these techniques, the review aims to aid researchers and healthcare professionals in selecting appropriate methods for their specific needs, ultimately contributing to the advancement of infectious disease treatment and control.