Microplastic-mediated antimicrobial resistance in aquatic environments: plastisphere dynamics, ecological risks, and...

The plastisphere, formed by microbial colonization on microplastics (MPs) surfaces, is widely recognized as a key reservoir for antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). The persistence of MP-associated biofilms further exacerbates the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). How to mitigate MPs and ARGs becomes an emerging issue under the context of One Health. However, given the increasingly fragmented focus of current research, there is a lack of comprehensive reviews on the removal of MPs and ARGs. With this in mind, this paper discusses the mechanisms by which MPs promote AMR production and transfer, as well as the multi-level ecological risks of MPs-ARGs combined pollution. More importantly, we systematically summarize the mechanisms of various wastewater treatment technologies for the simultaneous elimination of ARGs and MPs, including comprehensive biological processes (wastewater treatment plants, constructed wetlands and membrane bioreactors) and physical/chemical processes (adsorption and advanced oxidation processes). Besides, the efficiency and disadvantages of these methods in removing MPs and ARGs from wastewater and future prospects are discussed. In summary, this article offers valid information to reveal the tip of the iceberg of the severity of MPs and ARGs combined pollution. And it promotes the progress of novel and viable methods for the simultaneous removal of MPs and ARGs.