β-Lactam antibiotics are the most commonly prescribed antibiotics
worldwide; however, antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
is a global challenge. The β-lactam resistance in Gram-negative
bacteria is due to the production of β-lactamases, including
extended-spectrum β-lactamases, metallo-β-lactamases,
and carbapenem-hydrolyzing class D β-lactamases.
To restore the efficacy of BLAs, the most successful strategy
is to use them in combination with β-lactamase inhibitors
(BLI). Here we review the medically relevant β-lactamase
families and penicillins, diazabicyclooctanes, boronic acids,
and novel chemical scaffold-based BLIs, in particular approved
and under clinical development.