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