The Influencing Factors of Bacterial Resistance Related to Livestock Farm: Sources and Mechanisms

Abstract

Bacterial resistance is a complex scientific issue. To manage this issue, we need to deeply understand the influencing factors and mechanisms. Based on the background of livestock husbandry, this paper reviews the factors that affect the acquisition of bacterial resistance. Meanwhile, the resistance mechanism is also discussed. “Survival of the fittest” is the result of genetic plasticity of bacterial pathogens, which brings about specific response, such as producing adaptive mutation, gaining genetic material or changing gene expression. To a large extent, bacterial populations acquire resistance genes directly caused by the selective pressure of antibiotics. However, mobile resistance genes may be co-selected by other existing substances (such as heavy metals and biocides) without direct selection pressure from antibiotics. This is because the same mobile genetic elements as antibiotic resistance genes can be co-located by the resistance determinants of some of these compounds. Furthermore, environmental factors are a source of resistance gene acquisition. Here, we describe some of the key measures that should be taken to mitigate the risk of antibiotic resistance. We call on the relevant governments or organizations around the world to formulate and improve the monitoring policies of antibiotic resistance, strengthen the supervision, strengthen the international cooperation and exchange, and curb the emergence and spread of drug-resistant strains.

Antibiotic resistance in livestock, environment and humans: One Health perspective

“…Numerous studies have demonstrated a link between the use of antibiotics in food-producing animals, especially for growth promotion, and AR in people who either live on or near farms [ 15 ]. Additionally, drug-resistant strains can emerge if the prescribed antibiotics are not changed in a timely manner [ 26 ]. These bacteria generally develop resistance to antibiotics through several different resistance mechanisms, including blocking the antibiotic’s target sites, altering the permeability of cell membranes, and producing antibiotic-inactivating enzymes [ 27 ].…”

Non-Canonical Aspects of Antibiotics and Antibiotic Resistance

“…Airborne bacteria within and near farms carry more AR and virulence genes than those isolated from hospital air samples [ 256 ]. Arthropods carry AR bacteria from livestock units into surrounding areas [ 257 ] (a report from Germany shows that flies carrying bla CTX-M-1 and fluoroquinolone resistance genes from pig farms can be found 2 km away into urban areas [ 258 ]). Livestock production is a major source of AR genes in the soil [ 259 ].…”

Mechanisms of Bacterial Resistance to Heavy Metals: A Mini Review

“…Bacterial resistance refers to the ability of bacteria to withstand exposure to heavy metals, antimicrobial agents such as antibiotics, disinfectants, and antiseptics. This resistance can arise through a variety of mechanisms, including genetic mutations, horizontal gene transfer, and selective pressure from repeated exposure to such agents (Guo et al, 2021).…”