A Perspective on the Role of the Environment in the Transmission of Antibiotic Resistance

Abstract

Antimicrobial-resistant infections have increased several fold over the past few decades. The irrational use and overuse of antibiotics in sectors such as medical healthcare, animal husbandry, bee-keeping, horticulture, antifouling paints and food preservation has led to the selection of microorganisms equipped with ways to combat antibiotics. Consequently, several antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) and their elements have spread across several bacterial species via horizontal transmission and to the next generations by vertical transmission. Horizontal gene transfer of ARGs is mediated by mobile genetic elements (MGEs) like integrative and conjugative elements, plasmids, transposons, integrons, and insertion sequences. Plasmids accommodate a vast array of multiple resistance genes and, through bacterial conjugation, contribute in transferring resistance to bacterial populations. Studies indicate the presence of multidrug-resistant airborne pathogens in hospital environments. The presence of ARGs and MGE genes in airborne particulate matter in urban areas and in environments using antibiotics extensively (e.g., hospitals, cattle feed yards, wastewater treatment plants, etc.) is alarming. This current article discusses the most serious global threat to the effective treatment of bacterial infections. The current paper highlights the need to regulate antibiotic usage to avert the emergence of antibiotic resistant pathogens. Since antibiotics are unavoidable, therefore, it should be regulated and antibiotic resistance awareness programs should be promoted.