Antibiotic Resistomes in Plant Microbiomes.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Environmental Science
• Human Health

Background:

• The plant microbiome plays crucial roles in plant health and ecosystem functions.
• Humans interact with the plant microbiome through food consumption and direct contact.
• The influence of the plant microbiome on the human microbiome is underappreciated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the composition and function of the plant microbiome.
• To highlight the role of the plant microbiome in disseminating antibiotic resistance.
• To underscore the implications for human health.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on plant microbiome composition and function.
• Analysis of pathways for human exposure to plant-associated microbes and genes.
• Evaluation of the role of the plant microbiome in antibiotic resistance spread.

Main Results:

• Plant microbiomes harbor diverse microorganisms and genes.
• These microbes and genes can transfer to humans via food.
• The plant microbiome is a significant route for the dissemination of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes.

Conclusions:

• The plant microbiome significantly impacts the human microbiome.
• Plant-associated microbes pose a risk for spreading antibiotic resistance.
• Further research is needed to understand and mitigate these risks.