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Microplastics as Trojan horses: Vectors of pathogens, pollutants, and antimicrobial resistance genes

Ghazala Saeed1, Ali Afzal2, Afzal Nimra3

  • 1School of Basic Medical Sciences & School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, 225009, China; Institute of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan.

Environmental Research
|March 28, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Microplastics (MPs) act as Trojan horses, carrying pathogens and spreading antibiotic resistance. This review highlights their role in environmental and public health threats, urging interdisciplinary solutions.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Science
  • Microbiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Microplastics (MPs) are pervasive pollutants with significant ecological and public health implications.
  • MPs act as vectors for pathogens, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and antibiotic resistance genes.
  • The 'plastisphere' on MPs creates a unique niche for microbial colonization and gene transfer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To synthesize current research on the multifaceted roles of microplastics.
  • To explore MPs as reservoirs, vectors, and promoters of horizontal gene transfer.
  • To highlight the impact of MP properties on pollutant and pathogen interactions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of cutting-edge research on microplastics.
  • Analysis of the formation and function of the plastisphere.
  • Examination of the influence of MP physicochemical properties.

Main Results:

  • MPs serve as persistent reservoirs and vectors for hazardous pollutants and resistant microbes.
  • The plastisphere promotes biofilm formation, pathogen colonization, and horizontal gene transfer.
  • MP characteristics significantly affect their ecological and toxicological impacts.

Conclusions:

  • Microplastics pose a complex nexus of environmental, microbial, and public health challenges.
  • Further research is needed on long-term ecological effects and mitigation strategies.
  • Interdisciplinary approaches are crucial for addressing the microplastic crisis.
Keywords:
Ecotoxicological impactsHorizontal gene transferMicroplasticsMitigation strategiesPersistent reservoirsPublic health

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