Antimicrobial resistance and probiotics
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Antimicrobial resistance and probiotics
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Mahi Tyagi, Sonali Gangwar and Maya Datt Joshi
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Antimicrobial resistance and probiotics
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201817-13345
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a significant global health concern, primarily due to the overuse, misuse, and incomplete courses of antibiotics, along with extensive use in agriculture. This resistance not only complicates treatment protocols for infections but also leads to prolonged illnesses, increased healthcare costs, and a heightened risk during medical procedures. Probiotics, which are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when administered in adequate amounts, may offer a solution to the challenges posed by AMR by restoring balance to the gut microbiota and potentially reducing antibiotic consumption.
The Rise of Antimicrobial Resistance
The phenomenon of antimicrobial resistance occurs when microbes develop mechanisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, rendering standard treatments ineffective. Key contributors to this issue include the over-prescription of antibiotics and poor hygiene practices in healthcare settings. Resistant strains of bacteria such as Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacteriaceae have become prevalent, complicating the treatment of common infections. As these resistant pathogens proliferate, they pose a mounting threat to public health, making infections harder and more costly to treat, and increasing the risk of serious health complications and mortality.
The Impact on Gut Microbiota
Antibiotic use significantly disrupts the balance of gut microbiota, which is crucial for digestion, immune function, and overall health. The collateral damage caused by antibiotics leads to a reduction in microbial diversity, fostering the growth of harmful bacteria and diminishing the beneficial ones. This imbalance can result in various health issues, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea, weakened immune responses, and potential long-term conditions such as obesity and mental health disorders. The disruption of gut microbiota creates fertile ground for the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens, thereby exacerbating the global threat of antimicrobial resistance.
The Role of Probiotics
Probiotics serve as a potential countermeasure to the adverse effects of antibiotics on gut microbiota. Defined as live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, probiotics can help restore the microbial equilibrium disrupted by antibiotic treatment. They promote digestion, enhance nutrient absorption, stimulate immune responses, and prevent pathogen colonization by producing antimicrobial substances. By modulating immune functions and reducing toxin levels in the body, probiotics can contribute to overall health and mitigate the consequences of antibiotic-induced dysbiosis.
Conclusion
The rising tide of antimicrobial resistance presents a formidable challenge that demands immediate attention. The interplay between antibiotic use and the health of gut microbiota underscores the urgent need for effective strategies to restore balance in the microbial community. Probiotics offer a promising solution, as they can help prevent and alleviate the adverse effects associated with antibiotic therapy. In combating antimicrobial resistance, integrating probiotics into healthcare practices could serve as a preventive measure and a therapeutic approach to restore gut health and support overall wellness.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is antimicrobial resistance and why is it a concern?
Antimicrobial resistance is the ability of microbes to resist antibiotics. It poses a global health concern as it complicates the treatment of common infections, leading to longer illnesses, hospitalization, increased healthcare costs, and higher mortality rates.
How do antibiotics lead to the development of resistant microbes?
Overuse, incomplete courses, and over-prescription of antibiotics, along with agricultural use, contribute to the emergence of resistant microbes. These factors promote the evolution and proliferation of bacteria that can survive antibiotics.
What are probiotics and how can they benefit our health?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They aid digestion, improve nutrient absorption, enhance immune response, prevent pathogen colonization, and may reduce the risk of infections and allergies.
What health problems can arise from the imbalance of gut microbiota?
An imbalanced gut microbiota can lead to antibiotic-associated diarrhea, weakened immune responses, increased risk of obesity, depression, and asthma. These issues highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
What are some pathogens that are a priority concern for antimicrobial resistance?
Key pathogens include carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. These organisms are known to cause severe infections that are increasingly difficult to treat.
What are the potential harms of antibiotics on human health?
Antibiotics can cause various harms, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea, tendon ruptures, cardiac arrhythmias, and impaired immune function. They can also disrupt gut microbiota, leading to long-term health issues like obesity and mental health problems.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antimicrobial resistance and probiotics”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances that inhibit bacterial growth or kill bacteria. While antibacterial agents are vital in treating infections, their overuse can lead to resistance mechanisms developing in bacteria, creating challenges in treating common infections and necessitating the search for alternative therapies.
2) Drug:
A drug is any substance that, when introduced into the body, alters its physiological state. In the context of healthcare, drugs include antibiotics and other medications that treat diseases. The inappropriate use of drugs can contribute to drug resistance and various health complications within populations.
3) Disease:
Disease represents a pathological condition of a bodily part, an organism, or system resulting from various causes, including infection. Infectious diseases often necessitate antibiotic treatment. However, diseases caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens complicate treatment strategies and may lead to increased morbidity and mortality.
4) Family:
Family, in the biological context, is a taxonomic rank below order and above genus, grouping organisms that share common characteristics. The classification of bacteria into families helps in understanding their relationships, virulence factors, and resistance mechanisms—crucial for developing effective treatments against infectious diseases caused by them.
5) Mahi:
Mahi refers to the first author of the study, Mahi Tyagi, who contributed significantly to the research on antimicrobial resistance and probiotics. The author’s affiliation with Shobhit University highlights the academic foundation and geographical context of the research, which aims to address global health challenges.
6) Death:
Death represents the end of life and is often a critical endpoint in medical research. In the context of antimicrobial resistance, deaths can occur due to poorly treated infections caused by resistant bacteria. The struggle with antibiotic resistance contributes to increased mortality rates in healthcare settings.
7) Species:
Species is the fundamental unit of biological classification, representing a group of organisms capable of interbreeding. Understanding different bacterial species is essential for identifying pathogens responsible for infections. Some species, like resistant strains, pose a significant challenge to treatment and require tailored approaches.
8) Aureus:
Aureus refers to Staphylococcus aureus, a gram-positive bacterium known for its role in various infections, particularly its methicillin-resistant form (MRSA). This bacterium's ability to develop resistance mechanisms makes it a major focus in discussions around antimicrobial resistance and effective treatment strategies.
9) Overuse:
Overuse refers to the excessive or unnecessary use of antibiotics and other drugs, often leading to resistance. It's a critical factor influencing the emergence of multidrug-resistant pathogens, complicating treatment options and exacerbating public health issues associated with infections that were once easily treatable.
10) India:
India is a country where the study on antimicrobial resistance and probiotics was conducted. The findings have relevance globally, as India's healthcare practices, antibiotic consumption patterns, and agricultural use of antibiotics illustrate the complex factors contributing to antimicrobial resistance in various settings.
11) Food:
Food encompasses all substances consumed for nutritious benefits, including those that may harbor antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The food industry, particularly animal agriculture, contributes to antibiotic use, affecting human health through the transmission of resistant strains when livestock is consumed or when contaminated food is handled.
12) Agriculture:
Agriculture involves the cultivation of crops and the rearing of animals for food. The use of antibiotics in agriculture, especially for growth promotion and disease prevention in livestock, is a significant contributor to the development of antibiotic resistance, impacting both human health and food safety.
13) Cancer:
Cancer refers to malignant diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Some antibiotics have shown potential anti-carcinogenic properties; however, resistance may complicate treatment for infections in cancer patients, emphasizing the need for judicious antibiotic use in oncology settings to minimize adverse effects.
14) Animal:
Animals play a pivotal role in the transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to humans, especially through food sources. The farming and consumption of animals treated with antibiotics raise concerns about the spread of resistance, which can lead to complicated infections in humans and increased healthcare burdens.
15) Life:
Life refers to the condition characterized by living processes. The introduction of probiotics, derived from living microorganisms, aims to enhance health and restore balance in microbiomes disrupted by antibiotics, ultimately promoting better quality of life and wellness among individuals affected by dysbiosis.
16) Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy is a treatment method commonly used in cancer care to target rapidly dividing cells. Patients undergoing chemotherapy often experience weakened immune systems, making infections a significant risk, which necessitates careful antibiotic use to prevent complications associated with potential antibiotic resistance.
17) Depression:
Depression is a mood disorder impacting emotional and physical well-being. Research suggests a link between gut microbiota and mental health, where antibiotic-induced dysbiosis can contribute to mood-related issues, highlighting the importance of maintaining gut health for overall psychological resilience.
18) Substance:
Substance refers to a particular kind of matter with uniform properties. In medicine, substances include drugs and probiotics, which may influence microbial balance and resistance patterns. The interaction between different substances in the gut also plays a role in health and disease management.
19) Activity:
Activity signifies any action or behavior, particularly in biological contexts. In relation to probiotics, their activity involves promoting health by modulating immune responses and restoring gut microbiota balance. Ensuring proper gut activity is essential for nutrient absorption and overall biological function.
20) Reason:
Reason denotes a cause or explanation for an event or condition. Understanding the reasons behind antimicrobial resistance, including over-prescribing and misuse, is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat this pressing public health challenge and enhance treatment outcomes for infectious diseases.
21) Water:
Water is essential for life and also a transmission route for many pathogens. Contaminated water can facilitate the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, impacting public health globally. Ensuring safe drinking water is paramount in preventing disease and reducing the burden of antibiotic resistance.
22) Human body:
The human body is a complex biological system that houses various microorganisms. Disruptions to this microbial balance, particularly through antibiotic use, can lead to health complications. Understanding the interactions within this system is crucial for addressing issues related to microbial resistance and overall health.
23) Transmission:
Transmission is the process through which infectious agents are spread. Routes of transmission, including direct contact, food, and water contamination, play significant roles in the spread of antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Understanding these pathways is vital for implementing effective prevention and control measures in healthcare and communities.
24) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation refers to the gradual gathering or increase of substances over time. In the context of antibiotic resistance, the accumulation of resistant bacteria, due to selective pressure from antibiotic use, leads to greater prevalence of infections that are difficult to treat, complicating healthcare strategies.
25) Developing:
Developing signifies the process of growth or advancement. In the realm of microbial science, developing resistance mechanisms allows bacteria to withstand treatments. Understanding how bacteria are developing these traits is essential for designing effective therapies and combating the rise of infectious diseases.
26) Evolution:
Evolution refers to the gradual development or change in organisms over time. Bacteria evolve rapidly, especially in response to external pressures like antibiotic use. This evolutionary process leads to the emergence of resistant strains, making it crucial to adapt treatment protocols to counter these changes effectively.
27) Mutation:
Mutation describes the alteration of the genetic material in an organism. In bacteria, mutations can lead to resistance against antibiotics, complicating treatment options. Understanding the role of mutations in microbial genetics is vital for developing strategies to manage and combat antibiotic resistance effectively.
28) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a reflex action that expels the contents of the stomach through the mouth. It can be a symptom of infections caused by resistant bacteria, leading to dehydration and requiring antibiotics for treatment. Its presence may indicate underlying gastrointestinal disturbances linked to antibiotic usage.
29) Dealing:
Dealing refers to the management or handling of situations, particularly challenges such as antibiotic resistance. Effective dealing with resistant infections involves understanding resistance mechanisms, developing new therapies, and employing strategies aimed at minimizing resistance through responsible antibiotic prescribing and usage.
30) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene involves practices to maintain health and prevent disease, particularly through cleanliness. Inadequate hygiene in healthcare settings can contribute to the spread of antibiotic-resistant organisms. Ensuring proper hygiene is critical to reducing infection rates and controlling the emergence of resistant pathogens.
31) Allergy:
Allergy is an immune response to typically harmless substances, leading to various symptoms. Antibiotics can sometimes provoke allergic reactions in individuals. Understanding the relationship between antibiotics and allergy development is crucial for ensuring safe treatment practices, particularly in patients with known sensitivities.
32) Anxiety:
Anxiety is a psychological condition characterized by excessive worry or fear. Research has indicated potential links between gut microbiota and emotional states. Antibiotic-induced alterations in gut flora might influence anxiety levels, emphasizing the need for integrating mental health considerations in treatment strategies.
33) Surface:
Surface is the outermost layer of an object or organism. In microbiology, the surfaces of medical instruments and healthcare environments are critical in preventing bacterial colonization and infection. Understanding how antibiotic-resistant bacteria persist on surfaces is vital for infection control practices in healthcare settings.
34) Dahiya:
Dahiya likely refers to a researcher or contributor in the study of antimicrobial resistance. Collaborations among various researchers, including those like Dahiya, are essential for advancing the understanding of resistance mechanisms and developing innovative solutions to combat the ongoing challenge of antibiotic resistance.
35) Nausea:
Nausea is the sensation of unease or discomfort in the stomach often accompanied by the urge to vomit. This symptom can arise from gastrointestinal infections, including those caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Addressing nausea is essential in managing infections and improving patient outcomes.
36) Medium:
Medium, in biological terms, refers to a substance or environment in which organisms live and grow. For probiotics, the medium plays a critical role in their viability and effectiveness in restoring gut health disturbed by antibiotics, highlighting the importance of appropriate conditions for microbial therapies.
37) Farmer:
Farmer refers to a person engaged in agriculture, who may use antibiotics in livestock production. Practices among farmers heavily impact antibiotic usage patterns, which can contribute to the emergence of resistant bacteria, emphasizing the need for sustainable agricultural practices to protect public health.
38) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi refers to Maya Datt Joshi, a contributor to the study discussed. The inclusion of diverse academic perspectives, such as those of Joshi's, is fundamental to research exploring the multifaceted issues surrounding antimicrobial resistance, providing a comprehensive understanding of the problem at hand.
39) Ulcer:
Ulcer denotes a sore on the skin or a mucous membrane, often caused by infections. Particularly, ulcers can be associated with infections like those from Helicobacter pylori. The growing resistance to treatments for these infections highlights the need for research into alternative therapies and management strategies.
40) Fever:
Fever is an elevated body temperature often occurring in response to infection. The presence of fever typically indicates an ongoing inflammatory or infectious process, and the difficulty in managing fevers caused by antibiotic-resistant pathogens emphasizes the importance of developing effective treatments for such infections.
41) Visit:
Visit refers to an appointment with a healthcare provider for diagnosis or treatment. Increasing visits due to antibiotic-resistant infections place significant strain on healthcare systems. This underscores the importance of developing effective management strategies for antibiotic use and improving health outcomes.
42) Birth:
Birth refers to the beginning of life. Research has shown that the microbiota established at birth can have lasting impacts on health. The use of antibiotics during labor or in newborns can alter this foundational microbial community, potentially leading to long-term health implications.
43) Blood:
Blood is a vital body fluid responsible for transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste. Infections affecting the bloodstream, such as bacteremia caused by resistant organisms, pose significant health risks, highlighting the urgency of addressing antibiotic resistance in clinical settings to improve patient survival rates.
44) Cina:
China is a significant location in discussions regarding antibiotic use and resistance due to its vast population and healthcare practices. Understanding the dynamics of antibiotic resistance in China offers insights into global healthcare challenges and informs strategies aimed at mitigating the spread of resistant strains.
45) Vaca:
Vaca appears to not have a relevant context in medical or microbial discussions. It could represent a term or name requiring further clarification; however, the importance of context cannot be understated, as even seemingly unrelated terms may have connections through research focuses or case studies.
46) Maya (Maya°):
Maya refers to the author Maya Datt Joshi, highlighting her contributions to the discussions on antimicrobial resistance and probiotics. Academic collaboration among diverse researchers is vital to further the understanding of health challenges and devise comprehensive strategies for managing microbial resistance.
47) Bile:
Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, essential for fat digestion. It can also play a role in modulating the gut microbiota. Understanding its influence alongside antibiotics provides insight into restoring gut balance post-antibiotic therapy.
48) Genu:
Genu appears to not have clear relevance in the context of the text provided. It may require additional context or clarification to understand its significance or how it relates to antimicrobial resistance or probiotics effectively.
49) King:
King likely describes an author or researcher involved in studies related to antibiotics or microbial health. Research from various contributors, like King, is crucial for understanding complex health issues such as antimicrobial resistance and exploring potential solutions through innovative techniques and therapies.
50) Curd:
Curd is a dairy product resulting from the coagulation of milk, offering a source of probiotics. The consumption of fermented foods like curd can help restore gut microbiota balance after antibiotic use, thereby promoting digestive health and combating the adverse effects associated with dysbiosis.
51) Meat:
Meat refers to the flesh of animals that is consumed as food, which may be contaminated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Proper handling and cooking of meat are crucial to preventing foodborne illnesses and limiting the transmission of resistant pathogens, emphasizing food safety protocols.
52) Pain:
Pain is an uncomfortable sensation often associated with infection or injury. Managing pain effectively is vital in healthcare, particularly for infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Re-assessing treatment options is necessary to ensure pain is controlled while addressing underlying resistant infections.
53) Milk:
Milk, a common dietary staple, can be a source of probiotics and nutrients. The safety of milk consumption is essential, as antibiotic residues or resistant bacteria in dairy products can pose health risks. Ensuring milk's purity is crucial for maintaining public health standards.
54) Mud:
Mood pertains to a temporary state of mind or feeling. Research indicates a connection between gut health and mood regulation. The impact of antibiotic-induced changes in gut microbiota on mood disorders emphasizes the importance of maintaining gut integrity to support emotional well-being.
55) Pur:
Poor refers to a lack of quality or insufficient status. Poor hygiene in healthcare settings can lead to increased microbial transmission, including antibiotic-resistant strains. This highlights the need for improved practices and education to mitigate infection risks and protect patient health.
Other Science Concepts:
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Therapeutic approach, Immune system, Gut microbiota, Antimicrobial Resistance, Gut dysbiosis, Childhood obesity, Health problem, Antibiotic overuse, Mental health issue, Public health concern, Multi Drug Resistance, Probiotic, Antimicrobial substance, Resistance mechanism.
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