Summary
Mobile genetic elements such as integrons and transposons rapidly distribute resistance across species.
In depth
Integrons capture gene cassettes; transposons jump between plasmids and chromosomes; plasmids such as NDM-1 spread resistance globally. Hospitals and sewage are hotspots.
Mobile elements move genes in clinical settings. Surveillance tracks resistance genes. Reducing antibiotic use slows selection.
Example: plasmid-mediated colistin resistance gene mcr-1 was found in 2015 and spread globally.
Integrons capture and express gene cassettes, accumulating resistance determinants; transposons such as Tn4401 carry carbapenemase genes; plasmids with multiple replicons spread among species in hospitals, sewage and farms. Resistance genes have been found in bacteria from remote places and ancient permafrost, showing their long natural history. The NDM-1 enzyme spread worldwide after being identified in 2008.
Sites of spread include the gut of patients and animals, wastewater, soil and hospital surfaces, where antibiotics keep selection pressure. Surveillance uses genome sequencing and One Health approaches covering humans, animals and environment. Co-selection by metals and disinfectants can maintain resistance genes without antibiotics.
Key idea: resistance is shared across species, so controlling it requires action at the level of mobile elements and ecosystems as well as individual patients.
Frequently asked questions
What is Horizontal Resistance Spread?
Mobile genetic elements such as integrons and transposons rapidly distribute resistance across species.
Which area of biology covers Horizontal Resistance Spread, and how advanced is it?
Horizontal Resistance Spread is one of the 54 topics in Microbiology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Bacterial Genetics, Conjugation, Quorum Sensing.
Can you give an example of Horizontal Resistance Spread?
Carbapenemase genes moved between Klebsiella and E. coli.
What should I learn before Horizontal Resistance Spread?
Work through the Beginner topics in Microbiology first, such as Microorganisms, Bacteria, Archaea, then return to Horizontal Resistance Spread. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Horizontal Resistance Spread?
The closest topics to Horizontal Resistance Spread are Bacterial Genetics, Conjugation, Quorum Sensing, Bacteria. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Horizontal Resistance Spread?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Horizontal Resistance Spread. To practise the whole of Microbiology, use the Microbiology quiz.
How is Horizontal Resistance Spread different from Bacterial Genetics?
Horizontal Resistance Spread: Mobile genetic elements such as integrons and transposons rapidly distribute resistance across species. Bacterial Genetics: Bacteria change genetically through mutation and by exchanging DNA by transformation, transduction and conjugation. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Horizontal Resistance Spread step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Bacterial Genetics and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Microbiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.