The Formation of Specific Bacterial Communities Contributes to the Enrichment of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in the Soil Plastisphere

Microbial Ecology of the Plastisphere in Soil Plant Uptake

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Researchers examined the microbial ecology of the plastisphere in soil environments and its role in plant uptake, finding that microplastic-associated microbial communities alter soil health and can facilitate transfer of plastic particles and associated contaminants into plant tissues.

The formation of specific bacterial communities contributes to the enrichment of antibiotic resistance genes in the soil plastisphere

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Researchers used metagenomic approaches to study how microplastic surfaces in soil become enriched with antibiotic resistance genes through the formation of specific bacterial communities. The study tested three types of microplastics at two particle sizes and found that antibiotic resistance gene abundances significantly increased in the plastisphere compared to surrounding soil. Evidence indicates that microplastics in soil may serve as hotspots for the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Plastisphere as an eco-site for horizontal gene transfer: Enhancing antibiotic resistance in marine biofilms

The Impact of Microplastics on the Dissemination, Persistence, and Ecotoxicological Effects of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Terrestrial Ecosystems

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This review examined a decade of research on microplastics as carriers of antibiotic resistance genes in terrestrial ecosystems, showing that plastic surfaces enhance gene transmission and soil abundance while exerting toxic effects on microorganisms, plants, and animals. The coupling of microplastic pollution with antibiotic resistance spread represents a compounding public health threat with implications for food safety and the global antimicrobial resistance crisis.

Microplastics In The Environment Help Spread Antibiotic Resistance And Change Microbial Interactions

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Microplastics in soil and aquatic environments serve as selective surfaces where antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes accumulate at higher concentrations than in surrounding water, accelerating the spread of antibiotic resistance through ecosystems. This interaction between plastic pollution and antimicrobial resistance represents a compounding public health threat, as microplastics could help propagate resistant pathogens into drinking water and food supplies.