Antibiotic resistome from the One-Health perspective: understanding and controlling antimicrobial resistance transmission

Abstract

The concept of the antibiotic resistome was introduced just over a decade ago, and since then, active resistome studies have been conducted. In the present study, we describe the previously established concept of the resistome, which encompasses all types of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and the important findings from each One-Health sector considering this concept, thereby emphasizing the significance of the One-Health approach in understanding ARG transmission. Cutting-edge research methodologies are essential for deciphering the complex resistome structure in the microbiomes of humans, animals, and the environment. Based on the recent achievements of resistome studies in multiple One-Health sectors, future directions for resistome research have been suggested to improve the understanding and control of ARG transmission: (1) ranking the critical ARGs and their hosts; (2) understanding ARG transmission at the interfaces of One-Health sectors; (3) identifying selective pressures affecting the emergence, transmission, and evolution of ARGs; and (4) elucidating the mechanisms that allow an organism to overcome taxonomic barriers in ARG transmission.

Antimicrobial resistance: Mapping the spread among humans, animals and the environment

A deeper understanding of the interplay between the human microbiome and micro-organisms present in animals and the environment will be critical for controlling antimicrobial resistance. Researchers have long known that naturally occurring antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) can transfer between microbial species, disrupting clinical or veterinary antibiotic use. A review by Chang-Jun Cha at Chung-Ang University, Anseong, and Dae-Wi Kim, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea, highlights the importance of a holistic approach known as the ‘One Health’ model to ARG research. The authors explore known sources of ARGs, including soil- and water-dwelling microorganisms, and the pathogens and commensal species found in livestock, wild animals, and humans.The detailed mechanisms of ARG transmission are not fully understood, and the authors stress the need for cutting-edge genome sequencing techniques and other tools to increase understanding.