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Updated: Oct 27, 2025
Author Spotlight: Understanding and Detecting Environmental Antimicrobial Resistance by Combining Culture-Based Techniques and Genomics
Published on: July 19, 2024
The Effects of Natural Products and Environmental Conditions on Antimicrobial Resistance
Lulu Huang1, Saeed Ahmed2, Yufeng Gu1
1MOA Laboratory for Risk Assessment of Quality and Safety of Livestock and Poultry Products, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China.
Abstract:
Due to the extensive application of antibiotics in medical and farming practices, the continued diversification and development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has attracted serious public concern. With the emergence of AMR and the failure to treat bacterial infections, it has led to an increased interest in searching for novel antibacterial substances such as natural antimicrobial substances, including microbial volatile compounds (MVCs), plant-derived compounds, and antimicrobial peptides. However, increasing observations have revealed that AMR is associated not only with the use of antibacterial substances but also with tolerance to heavy metals existing in nature and being used in agriculture practice. Additionally, bacteria respond to environmental stresses, e.g., nutrients, oxidative stress, envelope stress, by employing various adaptive strategies that contribute to the development of AMR and the survival of bacteria. Therefore, we need to elucidate thoroughly the factors and conditions affecting AMR to take comprehensive measures to control the development of AMR.
Insights
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing concern due to antibiotic use and other factors like heavy metals and environmental stress. Understanding these drivers is crucial for developing effective control strategies against resistant bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Extensive antibiotic use in medicine and agriculture drives antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- Emerging AMR necessitates exploring novel antibacterial agents, including natural compounds like microbial volatile compounds (MVCs), plant compounds, and antimicrobial peptides.
- AMR is linked not only to antibacterials but also to heavy metal tolerance and bacterial adaptation to environmental stresses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the multifaceted nature of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- To underscore the need for a comprehensive understanding of factors influencing AMR development.
- To emphasize the importance of exploring alternative antimicrobial strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current research on AMR.
- Analysis of factors contributing to AMR, including antibiotic use, heavy metals, and environmental stressors.
- Identification of adaptive bacterial strategies relevant to AMR.
Main Results:
- AMR development is complex, influenced by diverse factors beyond direct antibiotic exposure.
- Heavy metals and various environmental stresses (nutrients, oxidative, envelope stress) contribute to bacterial survival and AMR.
- Bacteria employ adaptive strategies that enhance their resilience and promote AMR.
Conclusions:
- A thorough understanding of all factors affecting AMR is essential for effective control.
- Comprehensive strategies are needed to combat the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance.
- Further research into natural antimicrobials and bacterial adaptive mechanisms is warranted.
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