Here, resistant bacterial cells will conjugate to (i.e. make a link with) a non-resistant bacterial cell. This enables a path to form between the two cells and they can transfer genetic data (i.e. share their resistant genes). Overall, more bacterial cells will now possess this mutation and thus be resistant to the antibiotic, making it harder to eradicate the infection.
Other methods of resistant gene transfer include: transduction and transformation. Using transduction, bacteria can share resistant DNA, transferring genetic information from one bacterium to another using a virus (phages). There is no physical contact between the bacterial cells using this method. Transformation describes the direct uptake and incorporation of an external genetic material of a bacterial cell from its surroundings; this can be a natural or artificial process. Lastly, bacteria can also achieve resistance through enzyme production (i.e. nature’s catalyst which enables a reaction to occur). The bacteria learn what the antibiotic looks like and will produce enzymes which can break down the antibiotic when they make contact with it. After all, bacteria are living things and have the ability to learn as we do.
The Rise of the Superbug
According to WHO (World Health Organisation) \citep{organisation2017}, global increase in antibiotic resistance is one of the most significant threats to human health today. During winter many people experience colds and cases of flu, with the occasional stomach bug thrown in for good measure too. It’s at this time of year that many people go to their doctors in search of a quick remedy to what can sometimes feel like a never-ending cough or a runny nose. However, when you go in search of such miracles in the form of antibiotics, could you be doing more harm than good?