Role and Relation of Microbiome to Address Antimicrobial Resistance

Antibiotic resistance (AMR) has become a significant worldwide health crisis, resulting in millions of deaths and imposing substantial economic burdens. The extensive use of antibiotics without proper discretion and the limited advancement in developing new antibacterial treatments have notably contributed to the increased spread of drug resistance, endangering the effectiveness of antibiotics. While extensive research has explored the connection between AMR genes and bacterial diseases, there exists a notable gap in understanding how antibiotic resistance develops within the gut microbiota of healthy individuals. Recent studies have unveiled a diverse collection of AMR genes within healthy people’s gut microbiota, where resistance is often passed from one microbe to another. This dynamic setting suggests that a substantial portion of the human gut microbiome might carry resistance to multiple drugs, even without prior exposure to antibiotics. This chapter explores the multifaceted nature of AMR, encompassing environmental microbial reservoirs, gut microbiota, and microbiome-based therapies. It underscores the need for holistic, responsible antibiotic usage and a comprehensive One Health perspective to address the broader impact of antibiotic resistance. The fight against AMR demands a comprehensive approach that navigates the intricate landscape of antibiotic resistance.