Cross-resistance between biocides and antimicrobials: an emerging question

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Bacterial resistance mechanisms
• Antimicrobial stewardship

Background:

• Biocides are widely used, leading to environmental dissemination.
• Bacterial adaptations to biocides can result in reduced susceptibility to antibacterial agents.
• Mechanisms of resistance to biocides and antimicrobials share similarities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss bacterial resistance mechanisms relevant to both biocides and antimicrobials.
• To examine the regulation and mode of action of these resistance mechanisms.
• To highlight the risk of cross-resistance development due to biocide exposure.

Main Methods:

• Review of laboratory studies on induced resistance.
• Analysis of resistance mechanisms affecting biocide and antibiotic molecules.
• Discussion of regulatory aspects and modes of action.

Main Results:

• Exposure to biocides can induce cross-resistance to antibacterial agents.
• Similar resistance mechanisms are involved for both biocides and antimicrobials.
• Laboratory studies demonstrate the induction of resistance.

Conclusions:

• Prudent use of antibacterial agents is strongly recommended across all applications.
• This recommendation aims to preserve the activity of antibacterial agents.
• Avoiding widespread biocide use is essential to prevent cross-resistance development.