A host's genes likely influence the spread of antibiotic resistance
Wednesday, January 29, 2020 - 13:20
in Health & Medicine
In the gastrointestinal tract of host animals, bacteria can exchange the genes responsible for antibiotic resistance (AR) via small, circular chunks of DNA called plasmids. However, the process in this complex environment isn't completely understood, and AR has become a public health menace. Every year, according to the CDC, more than 2.8 million people are diagnosed with infections resistant to antibiotic treatment, and 35,000 people die.