Decoding RNA Networks: Unveiling Antibiotic Defense Mechanisms

The rapid emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical threat to global health, demanding innovative research strategies beyond conventional paradigms. While protein-centric mechanisms have long dominated this field, growing evidence underscores the pivotal role of RNA-mediated regulatory networks in bacterial adaptation and survival under antibiotic stress. We invite researchers to contribute original research articles, reviews, and perspectives to this special issue focusing on the dynamic and multifaceted roles of RNA in antibiotic defense mechanisms.This collection aims to highlight how non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), riboswitches, and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) coordinate bacterial responses, enabling rapid physiological shifts, persistence, and the development of resistance. By integrating advances in transcriptomics, systems biology, and artificial intelligence, this Research Topic seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of RNA-driven regulatory circuits and identify novel therapeutic targets to combat resistant pathogens.We welcome submissions in the following sub-topics:• RNA-mediated regulation of antimicrobial resistance (e.g., sRNAs, antisense RNAs, RBPs)• Riboswitches and RNA sensors in antibiotic response• RNA control of efflux systems, metabolism, and stress adaptation• RNA roles in biofilm formation, persistence, and quorum sensing• Epitranscriptomic modifications and RNA turnover in resistance• RNA-mediated mechanisms in horizontal gene transfer and mobile genetic elements• RNA-based therapeutics and RNA-targeting antibiotics• Synthetic RNA circuits and CRISPR-based antimicrobial strategies• Multi-omics and AI-driven approaches to RNA network analysisThis Research Topic seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of RNA-driven regulatory circuits and identify novel therapeutic targets to combat resistant pathogens.In this Research Topic we welcome the following article types allowed in the Antimicrobials, Resistance and Chemotherapy section: FAIR² DATA Direct Submission, FAIR² Data, Hypothesis and Theory, Methods, Mini Review, Opinion, Original Research, Perspective, Review, Systematic Review, Technology and Code. Topic editors: Dr Ranjith Kumavath, Siddhardha Busi Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/80225/decoding-rna-networks-unveiling-antibiotic-defense-mechanisms