A Study on Mechanism of Multidrug Resistance in Bacterial Pathogens

Abstract

Discovery of antibiotics revolutionized the field of medicine but the generation of resistance among bacteria averts the use of these wonder drugs. Since 1940s, resistance has been widely recognised among bacterial pathogens. Since then, researchers have analysed the nature and method of origin of resistance in various bacterial species. Study on several strains of bacteria showed that the origin of resistance can be innate or adaptive and resistance generation is a tactic response to the abundance of antibiotic in bacterial surroundings. Bacterial resistance originates on physiochemical basis or on the genetic level. Divers classes of bacteria share resistance mechanisms and exhibit the resistance against one or more than one type of antibiotic. A well-known cause of resistance generation is the overuse and misuse of antibiotics by human population. Our environment contains a high concentration of antibiotics and pollutants, which assists in selection of resistance bacteria over sensitive one. A considerable complication with resistance is the spread between different species and classes of bacteria. Proliferation of resistance among bacteria is causing escalation of the frequency of resistance pathogens in environment. Some known strains, as VRE and MRSA, that are predominant pathogens to cause hospital-acquired infections, are identify to be resistant against all commonly available antibiotics. This study hence reviews the various causes, which aids in generation of resistance and mechanisms utilised by bacteria to eliminate the effectiveness of antibiotics. In addition, the study discusses the escalation of resistance pathogen frequency with increased antibiotic use and several unconventional technologies, which can act as antibiotic alternatives to combat resistant pathogens.