Maternal-infant antibiotic resistance genes transference: what do we know?

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Public Health
• Neonatal Health

Background:

• Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health crisis, with multidrug-resistant pathogens threatening effective treatments.
• Newborns are particularly vulnerable to infections and the acquisition of antibiotic resistance due to their immature immune systems.
• The mother-infant dyad represents a critical window for the transmission of antibiotic resistance, influencing long-term health outcomes.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes current knowledge on antibiotic resistance in mother-infant dyads.
• It examines factors influencing the neonatal resistome, including delivery mode and maternal antibiotic exposure.
• The review highlights the understudied role of breast milk in the vertical transmission of antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs).

Key Points:

• Early life exposure to antibiotic-resistant microorganisms can lead to colonization of the infant's gut and other sites.
• Maternal factors such as gestational age, delivery mode, and antibiotic history significantly shape the infant's developing microbiota and resistome.
• Breast milk's contribution to the transfer of ARGs from mother to infant requires further investigation.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of the mother-infant resistome is essential for combating the spread of antibiotic resistance.
• Further research into breast milk's role in ARG transmission is needed to develop targeted strategies for reducing early-life antibiotic resistance.
• Closing knowledge gaps in vertical transmission is vital for safeguarding neonatal health against antibiotic-resistant infections.