Influencia de microplásticos en la resistencia bacteriana

Abstract

Background: Bacterial resistance is a growing threat to global health, reducing the efficacy of antibiotics and increasing the difficulty in treating common and severe infections. Terrestrial ecosystems serve as the primary source and transport pathways for microplastics and nanoplastics, ensuring microbial exposure in the food chain. Objective: To describe the influence of microplastics on bacterial resistance. Methodology: A qualitative, non-experimental, narrative bibliographic study was carried out, based on the review of sources from different scientific databases, considering high-impact articles published during the last five years. Results: The analysis included nine studies. The results indicated that microplastics can serve as carriers of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and pathogens. Bacterial resistance mechanisms include hydrolytic enzymes, active site modification, decreased cell wall permeability, and efflux pumps. Conclusions: Microplastics influence bacterial resistance through various mechanisms, including gene transfer, biofilm formation, and antibiotic adsorption