# Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in VDEC Source: https://www.keypedia.com/records/uk_mhra_guidance/uk-mhra/3b7278ce-1e94-4a4c-973a-2efcd601b909 Type: Detailed Guide Published: May 19, 2024 Updated: April 9, 2026 > The Vaccine Development and Evaluation Centre (VDEC), a component of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), is dedicated to the discovery and evaluation of vaccines and therapeutics to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). While the provided document does not detail specific inspection dates or regulatory violations—as it serves as an informational overview of VDEC’s capabilities—it identifies the global threat of drug-resistant pathogens, such as tuberculosis and multidrug-resistant fungi, as the primary challenge being addressed. VDEC operates within the regulatory framework of the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) National Action Plan for AMR and adheres to commitments established by the United Nations and the World Health Organization. The center also participates in the Pathways to Antimicrobial Clinical Efficacy (PACE) programme to accelerate treatment delivery. VDEC utilizes advanced methods including bacteriophages, immune modulators, and biofilm disruptors to prevent resistance and improve patient outcomes. To further these goals, VDEC requires active engagement from industry, academia, and government partners, encouraging these entities to contact the UKHSA to leverage the center's unique research and diagnostic capabilities for pandemic preparedness. --- ## Content Combatting antimicrobial resistance at VDEC The Vaccine Development and Evaluation Centre ( VDEC ) facilitates the development and evaluation of new vaccines and therapeutics. One area of VDEC ’s expertise is antimicrobial resistance ( AMR ). Research at VDEC pursues the discovery, development and evaluation of novel antimicrobials (and vaccines for AMR ) for a number of functions, including: to develop and evaluate improved diagnostics for AMR infections to prevent resistance from arising during treatment to combat or reverse existing drug resistance to reduce drug toxicity and reduce treatment times for multidrug-resistant gram-negative infections tuberculosis ( TB ) and non-tuberculosis mycobacteria and high-priority fungal pathogens and viruses with pandemic or AMR potential Work with VDEC We work with industry, academia and government. Contact UKHSA today to see how we can help you. Get in touch How VDEC supports AMR research VDEC has established and rare capabilities for the discovery, development and evaluation of new therapeutics, including novel antimicrobial agents (small molecule, antibiotic resistance breakers, bacteriophage, antimicrobial peptides, immune modulators, microbiome modulators, biofilm disruptors and vaccines for AMR ) which are urgently required to address the increasing challenges of AMR , across a wide range of bacterial, fungal and viral pathogens. Scientist evaluating novel antimicrobial agents AMR and pathogen research at VDEC Our AMR research is supported by working closely with other UKHSA and Department of Health and Social Care ( DHSC ) departments that capture guidance and intervention development for antimicrobial stewardship, infection prevention and control and pharmacy. Collectively we are contributing to national and international policy development, ensuring United Nations ( UN ) and World Health Organization ( WHO ) commitments are met or exceeded. The nature of the research we conduct depends on the pathogen in question, the current urgent need, and the appropriate course of action (diagnostics, vaccines, and/or therapeutics). VDEC is a member of the Delivery Partner Network for the Pathways to Antimicrobial Clinical Efficacy ( PACE ) programme, We are leading contributors to the DHSC National Action Plan for AMR and UKHSA ’s commitments to this plan, with a focus on innovation for pandemic preparedness and priority pathogens.