Effects of Microplastics on the Intestinal Barrier, Gut Microbiota and Antibiotic Resistance Genes: A Mini-Review

Microplastics (MPs) have aroused a global health concern and their coexistence with antibiotics is inevitable. However, how MPs would affect the bioaccumulation and risks of antibiotics in humans remains poorly understood. In this study, we reviewed several articles that examined the abundance and expression changes of ARGs in various environments. These changes were observed upon exposure to antibiotics such as tetracycline, sulfamethoxazole, and macrolides, as well as MPs, or a combination of both. To assess the impact of MPs on ARG abundance, we compiled data from various studies using tables of ARG abundances in tissues or environmental samples. By synthesizing this information, we aimed to identify which ARGs were upregulated or downregulated in response to micronanoplastics and antibiotics. Our findings provide insights into the potential risks posed by environmental pollutants and underscore the importance of understanding the dynamics of ARGs in response to MPs. We identified that shifts in gut microbiota contributed to the changes in ARG profiles. Combined, our results demonstrate that MPs reduced the bioaccumulation of tetracycline, sulfamethoxazole, and macrolides, but they enhanced its effects on gut microbiota and the antibiotic resistome indicating they might have high risks to humans.