A recent study by scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, has demonstrated how nanoplastics can facilitate horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of antibiotic resistance (AR) genes, especially within the human gut microbiota.

Key Highlights of the Study

• Impact of Nanoplastics: Polyethylene terephthalate bottle-derived nanoplastics (PBNPs) facilitate the transfer of antibiotic resistance (AR) genes among bacteria, including beneficial gut microbiota like Lactobacillus acidophilus through a process called horizontal gene transfer (HGT).
  • HGT: 
• Bacteria Involved: Gene transfer from E. coli to Lactobacillus acidophilus highlights cross-species AR gene propagation.
• Risks to Gut Health: Beneficial gut bacteria may act as AR gene reservoirs, potentially transferring resistance to pathogens.
• Call for Action: Emphasis on stricter plastic usage policies and waste management to mitigate risks to human microbiome health.

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Impact of Nano-Plastics on Cellular Level

• Oxidative Stress: Induces reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to cellular damage which triggers stress-response genes in bacteria.
• Membrane Damage: Causes physical damage to bacterial membranes and facilitates the secretion of outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), enhancing gene transfer potential.
• Gene Transfer Facilitation through two pathways:
• • Direct Transformation Pathway: Nanoplastics act as carriers for AR plasmids, promoting direct gene transfer between bacteria.
  • OMV-Induced Pathway: Nanoplastics enhance OMV secretion, which carries AR genes across species.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

• Antimicrobial resistance occurs when microorganisms develop mechanisms to survive exposure to antibiotics, rendering treatments ineffective. It is a critical global health threat.
• Drivers of AMR:
  • Overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans and livestock.
  • Environmental contamination with antibiotics and resistant bacteria.
• Impact on Public Health:
  • Reduced efficacy of antibiotics.
  • Increased prevalence of multidrug-resistant infections.
  • Higher healthcare costs and mortality rates.Findings from INST Study