Microplastics pollution in the ocean: Potential carrier of resistant bacteria and resistance genes

• Published in: Environmental pollution (1987) 2021-12, Vol.291, p.118130-118130, Article 118130
• Main Authors: Stenger, K.S., Wikmark, O.G., Bezuidenhout, C.C., Molale-Tom, L.G.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Antibiotic resistance; Biofilm; Microbes; Microplastics; Pathogenic bacteria; Resistance
• ISSN: 0269-7491; 1873-6424
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118130

Microplastics pollution in marine environments is concerning. Microplastics persist and accumulate in various sections of the ocean where they present opportunity for micropollutant accumulation and microbial colonisation. Even though biofilm formation on plastics was first reported in the 1970's, it is only in recent years were plastic associated biofilms have gained research attention. Plastic surfaces pose a problem as they are a niche ready for colonisation by diverse biofilm assemblages, composed of specific bacterial communities and putative pathogens prone to acquiring ARGs and resistance in the biofilm. However, the nature of antibiotic resistance on aquatic plastic debris is not yet fully understood and remains a concern. Given the inevitable increase of plastic production and waste generation, microplastics released into the environment may prove to be problematic. This review explores microplastic waste in the ocean and possible concerns that may arise from the presence of microplastics in conjunction with favourable conditions for the development and dispersal of antibiotic resistance in the ocean and food web. •Microplastics fibres and fragments are commonly found polluting the world's ocean.•Microplastics biofilm assemblages are different from free-living communities.•Microplastics serve as a pathway for dispersal of drug resistant bacteria.•Microplastics allow for enrichment and dispersal of antibiotic resistance genes.•A need exist for regulatory frameworks addressing microplastics in aquatic ecosystems.