A study by Oxford has discovered how plastic envelopes can contribute to the spread of antibiotic resistant superbatters, favoring their mutation
A new Study of the University of Oxfordled by Professor Timothy Walsh, he turned on the spotlight on a possible link between microplastics and the diffusion of antibiotic resistant superbatters. The research, which is part of the growing environmental and health alarm linked to plastic, suggests that the tiny fragments deriving from commonly used objects – such as shopping bags or food packaging – not only accumulate in the environment, but they can also Promote the mutation of bacteriamaking them more dangerous for man.
These microscopic particlesoften lower than 2.5 micrometerssucceed in penetrate the human body Through air, drinking water and food chain. Once inside the body, microplastics can absorb antibiotics in the environment and act as a vehicle for their exposure to low dosages in bacteria. This phenomenon can induce one progressive resistance to drugstransforming common bacteria into potential killers that are difficult to treat.
Increases up to 200 times the risk of the diffusion of superbacteria
The study also highlights how some very popular types of plastic, like PE, PP, PS and PETare able to encourage the formation of bacifilm bacterialreal communities of bacteria that live adhering to surfaces and that facilitate it exchange of resistance genes between microorganisms.
This protected environment allows bacteria to adapt e survive antibioticsup to multiply in more resistant forms. Scientists even speak of an increased risk up to 200 times in the diffusion of superbatteri linked to the presence of microplastics.
Oxford’s study therefore invites a serious reflection on theDaily use of plasticparticularly in the food sector, and on the need to coordinated actions globally. Reduce disposable plastic, encourage alternative materials and promote a conscious use of antibiotics They are fundamental steps to counteract this invisible alarm that puts public health at risk.
