AMR Bio has urged the Secretary of State & Human Services (HHS) to provide federal support for topical antimicrobials alongside conventional antibiotic development in its written comments to the Presidential Advisory Council on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (PACCARB) ahead of the Council's meeting in June.
The meeting aims to contribute to the next iteration of the US National Action Plan on Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria (NAP-CARB).
The revival of PACCARB, which had been inactive since early 2025, is a significant moment for the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) community.
It signals renewed US political commitment to combat antibiotic resistance by uniting industry leaders, regulators and policymakers to tackle this growing challenge and enhance access to new prevention and treatment options.
AMR Bio, represented by Executive Chair Nigel Brooksby, has submitted a set of recommendations for the NAP-CARB's next phase.
These include prioritising infection prevention as a core strategy in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and elevating it to the same level of importance as antibiotic development.
Preventing infections before they occur is one of the most effective ways to reduce antibiotic use and slow the spread of resistance.,
The submission also urges federal policies to expand support beyond traditional systemic antibiotics to include topical antimicrobials and other innovative preventive technologies.
Additionally, it calls for establishing new incentive frameworks that reward innovation in prevention alongside treatment.
The submission highlights XF-73, AMR Bio's first-in-class topical antimicrobial, known for its rapid effectiveness against Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) and its low potential for resistance.
Its unique mechanism distinguishes it from traditional antibiotics, making it a promising option for preventing infections, supporting antibiotic stewardship and curbing the spread of resistant organisms, in line with the National Action Plan's objectives.
Brooksby commented: "The revival of PACCARB is a welcome and important development and we are pleased to have contributed AMR Bio's perspective at this pivotal stage of the National Action Plan."
The United States has a critical role to play in driving global progress against antimicrobial resistance and policymakers have an opportunity to create an environment that supports the development and adoption of innovative new approaches.
"We look forward to attending the virtual meeting on 16 June and continuing our engagement with US stakeholders as we advance the XF-73 programme."