Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 27, 2026

Screening Foodstuffs for Class 1 Integrons and Gene Cassettes
Published on: June 19, 2015
Horizontal gene transfer in the human gastrointestinal tract: potential spread of antibiotic resistance genes
1Biology Department, Abilene Christian University, Abilene, TX, USA.
Abstract:
Bacterial infections are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to widespread antibiotic resistance among pathogens. This review aims to give an overview of the major horizontal transfer mechanisms and their evolution and then demonstrate the human lower gastrointestinal tract as an environment in which horizontal gene transfer of resistance determinants occurs. Finally, implications for antibiotic usage and the development of resistant infections and persistence of antibiotic resistance genes in populations as a result of horizontal gene transfer in the large intestine will be discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Horizontal Gene Transfer
Types of Genetic Transfer Between Organisms
Types of Genetic Transfer Between Organisms
Transduction
Conjugation
Antibiotic Selection

