Antimicrobial Resistance in African Great Apes

Area of Science:

• Primatology
• Microbiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) are a global threat, with antimicrobial resistance (AMR) driven by antibiotic overuse.
• Antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs) exist in all ecosystems, including those without antibiotic exposure.
• African great apes (AGAs) are susceptible to human pathogens and can act as sentinels and reservoirs for AMR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on AMR in African great apes (AGAs).
• To identify knowledge gaps regarding AMR in AGA populations.
• To explore the potential of AGAs as sentinels for human-induced AMR spread.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on AMR in AGAs.
• Analysis of 16 relevant research articles.
• Categorization of studies based on habitat (wild, captive) and human interaction.

Main Results:

• All reviewed studies detected AMR in AGAs.
• Beta-lactams (36%) and aminoglycosides (22%) were the most common resistances found.
• AMR was present in wild apes, with some studies suggesting a correlation with increased human contact.

Conclusions:

• AGAs harbor bacteria resistant to diverse antibiotics.
• AMR in AGAs is present even in remote habitats, suggesting complex origins.
• Standardized comparative studies are needed to understand AMR origins and distribution in AGAs.