[Pollution Situation and Transmission Risks of Antibiotic Resistance within the Plastisphere in the Aquatic Environment].

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Authors: Qi-Hui Wu, Ang Li, Wen-Fang Lin
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Microplastics, as emerging contaminants, are widely distributed in the hydrosphere of the Earth. They not only provide a new niche for microorganisms, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria, but also interact with other pollutants, such as heavy metals, antibiotics, disinfectants, etc. Moreover, they migrate with water flow and through the food chains, influencing the spread and dissemination of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes. Therefore, microplastics may not only serve as a vector for the transmission of pathogens but also be a hotspot for the transfer of resistance genes, posing significant threats to both human health and urban ecosystems. This review summarizes the types and abundances of antibiotic resistance genes in the plastisphere of different waters areas (including seawater, freshwater, and wastewater) and explores the influencing factors for the spread and dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes in the plastisphere, as well as their potential risks to human health and ecosystems. Finally, the future research directions of antibiotic resistance in the plastisphere are prospected, aiming to provide new insights for a comprehensive understanding of relevant issues regarding antibiotic resistance in the plastisphere.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Pharmaceutical and Antibiotic Environmental Impacts Microplastics and Plastic Pollution Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria

Publication details

Journal / source
PubMed
Volume
47
Issue
1
Pages
289–300
Publication date
8 January 2026
Language
ZH