Unraveling the Role of Metals and Organic Acids in Bacterial Antimicrobial Resistance in the Food Chain

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2023

Authors

Rebelo, A (Author) Other; Almeida, A (Author) Other; Peixe, L. (Author) FFUP; Antunes, Patrícia (Author) FCNAUP; Novais, C. (Author) FFUP

Journal

Title: Antibiotics

Vol. 12

Final page: 1474

Publisher: MDPI

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scientific classification

CORDIS: Health sciences

FOS: Medical and Health sciences

Associated Projects

AGRIFOOD-XXI - AGRIFOOD-XXI

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Z-39X

DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12091474

Abstract (EN): Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has a significant impact on human, animal, and environmental health, being spread in diverse settings. Antibiotic misuse and overuse in the food chain are widely recognized as primary drivers of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, other antimicrobials, such as metals and organic acids, commonly present in agri-food environments (e.g., in feed, biocides, or as long-term pollutants), may also contribute to this global public health problem, although this remains a debatable topic owing to limited data. This review aims to provide insights into the current role of metals (i.e., copper, arsenic, and mercury) and organic acids in the emergence and spread of AMR in the food chain. Based on a thorough literature review, this study adopts a unique integrative approach, analyzing in detail the known antimicrobial mechanisms of metals and organic acids, as well as the molecular adaptive tolerance strategies developed by diverse bacteria to overcome their action. Additionally, the interplay between the tolerance to metals or organic acids and AMR is explored, with particular focus on co-selection events. Through a comprehensive analysis, this review highlights potential silent drivers of AMR within the food chain and the need for further research at molecular and epidemiological levels across different food contexts worldwide.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 35