A recent study discovered that microplastics, often acting as hosts for slimy biofilms created by bacteria to shield themselves from harm, might be aiding in the spread of dangerous antibiotic-resistant superbugs. According to the study’s lead author Neila Gross, a doctoral student at Boston University, microplastics serve as rafts for bacteria, allowing them to travel and adapt to various environments more easily than they would on their own. These biofilms, protective structures made by bacteria from their waste, provide a secure environment for bacteria to thrive and reproduce, much like an armored house. Plastics, in particular, seem to attract highly prolific bacteria and form strong bonds with biofilms, making it difficult to remove them and leading to increased antibiotic resistance. The study’s senior author, Muhammad Zaman, noted that biofilms on microplastics can amplify antibiotic resistance hundreds to thousands of times more than usual, affecting a wide range of commonly used antibiotics. The research, which focused on E. coli bacteria and four antibiotics, found that E. coli biofilms on microplastics grew faster, larger, and more resistant to antibiotics compared to those on glass spheres. The study’s results highlighted the concern that microplastics could enhance the ability of bacteria to form stronger biofilms and develop higher resistance to antibiotics. Further research is needed to confirm these findings, as noted by environmental hepatology expert Shilpa Chokshi from the University of Plymouth.
Chokshi stated that the current replication does not capture real-world complexity. More research is necessary to determine if these findings apply to human infections or environmental conditions. To access more CNN news and newsletters, sign up at CNN.com.
