Context:
Scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have recently shown that nanoplastics can promote horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of antibiotic resistance (AR) genes, particularly within the human gut microbiota.
Nanoplastics:
- Plastic particles smaller than 1 micrometer (between 1 nm (nanometer) and 1000 nm), generated from the degradation of larger plastic materials due to environmental and mechanical forces.
- Sources of Nanoplastics:
- Single-Use Plastic Bottles (SUPBs): Breakdown of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles.
- Industrial Microplastics: By-products of various manufacturing processes that further degrade into nanoplastics.
- Environmental Degradation: Fragmentation of plastic waste in oceans, soil, and other ecosystems.
- Pathways to the Body:
- Ingestion: Through contaminated food and water.
- Inhalation: Airborne particles from industrial and urban pollution.
- Dermal Contact: Absorption through the skin during prolonged exposure to plastic-contaminated environments.
Key Findings of Study
- Nanoplastics and microorganisms coexist in various environments, including the human gut.
- PBNPs (Polyethylene Terephthalate Bottle-derived Nanoplastics) facilitate cross-species gene transfer from E. coli to Lactobacillus acidophilus (beneficial gut bacteria) via horizontal gene transfer (HGT).
- HGT: Movement of genetic material between organisms (except parent to offspring).
- Mechanisms of AR Gene Transfer:
- Direct Transformation Pathway:
- PBNPs act as physical carriers, transporting AR plasmids across bacterial membranes.
- OMV (Outer Membrane Vesicle) – Induced Transfer Pathway:
- PBNPs induce oxidative stress and damage to bacterial surfaces, increasing OMV secretion and facilitating gene transfer.
- Direct Transformation Pathway:
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
- AMR: Occurs when microorganisms develop mechanisms to survive antibiotics, making treatments ineffective.
- It is a critical global health threat.
- Drivers of AMR:
- Overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans and livestock.
- Environmental contamination with antibiotics and resistant bacteria.
- Impact on Public Health:
- Reduced efficacy of antibiotics.
- Increased prevalence of multidrug-resistant infections.
- Higher healthcare costs and mortality rates.
- Findings from INST Study:
- Demonstrated how nanoplastics can facilitate horizontal gene transfer (HGT) of antibiotic resistance (AR) genes within the human gut microbiota.
Read more about: AMR | Micro and Nano plastics
Source: PIB
Previous Year Question
Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
1. Genetic predisposition of some people
2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming
4. Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2019 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b)