Mapping Resistance Patterns of Acinetobacter baumannii and Exploring Traditional Nigerian Herbs as Potential Therapeutic Alternatives: Insights from the Vivli AMR Data Challenge

Expression of Interest

Project Title: Mapping Resistance Patterns of Acinetobacter baumannii and Exploring Traditional Nigerian Herbs as Potential Therapeutic Alternatives: Insights from the Vivli AMR Data Challenge

We are pleased to express our interest in participating in the Vivli AMR Data Challenge through our proposed project addressing the critical issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Acinetobacter baumannii, a WHO-listed priority pathogen known for its multidrug resistance and association with severe healthcare-associated infections.

This study will leverage Vivli’s global surveillance dataset (2016–2021) on the A. baumannii–calcoaceticus complex to assess resistance patterns, with particular focus on carbapenem resistance such as imipenem and meropenem. By analyzing regional and temporal trends, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), we aim to highlight treatment gaps and areas of urgent concern.

Building on these data insights, we will explore Nigerian medicinal herbs traditionally used to treat infections such as pneumonia, sepsis, and wound-related illnesses. Through literature and ethnobotanical database reviews, we will identify herbs with reported antibacterial activity and propose a prioritisation framework for future in vitro testing.

Project Objectives:

Analyse global and regional resistance patterns of A. baumannii to key antibiotics.
Identify gaps in current treatment efficacy, especially in LMIC contexts.
Explore traditional Nigerian herbs with relevant antibacterial properties.
Propose a prioritised list of herbal candidates for further validation.
Develop visual tools and insights to support local treatment and policy recommendations.

This project integrates microbiology, AMR research, herbal pharmacology, and data analytics to support:

Improved patient outcomes through new therapeutic insights,
Stronger stewardship through resistance-informed recommendations, and
Public health practice by proposing affordable, culturally accepted treatment alternatives. While grounded in the Nigerian context, our approach can serve as a model for other LMICs with similar AMR burdens and herbal traditions. We are eager to contribute to global AMR innovation through this interdisciplinary, data-driven study.