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Updated: Aug 11, 2025

Visualization of Bacterial Resistance using Fluorescent Antibiotic Probes
Published on: March 2, 2020
Efflux-mediated tolerance to cationic biocides, a cause for concern?
Matthew E Wand1, J Mark Sutton1
1Technology Development Group, UK Health Security Agency, Research and Evaluation, Porton Down, Salisbury, Wiltshire, SP4 0JG, UK.
Multi-drug-resistant pathogens necessitate robust infection control using disinfectants and antiseptics (biocides). This review explores biocide resistance genes, focusing on efflux pumps and their role in cross-resistance to antibiotics in Gram-negative bacteria.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacterial Pathogenesis
Background:
- Increasing antibiotic resistance necessitates effective infection control strategies.
- Disinfectants and antiseptics (biocides) are crucial for combating multi-drug-resistant pathogens.
- Limited knowledge exists regarding biocide resistance genes and their clinical impact.
Conclusions:
- Efflux pumps play a critical role in bacterial tolerance to biocides, particularly cationic biocides and heavy metals.
- Understanding biocide resistance mechanisms is essential for effective infection control.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the link between biocide and antibiotic resistance to prevent treatment failures.
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