Editorial: Antibiotic Resistance in Aquatic Systems

The spread of antibiotic-resistant pathogens and their resistance traits is an epic global challenge, as recognized by various international bodies, including the G8 Science Ministry in 2013 and the Elmau summit in 2015 While most attention continues to be devoted to the clinic and the need to develop new drugs, there is growing recognition of the need to understand the origin and ecology of antibiotic resistance in order to slow its spread and maximize the lifespan of our antibiotic arsenal (Wright, 2010). In particular, the aquatic environment can serve both as a natural reservoir of antibiotic resistance and a conduit for the spread of clinical resistance traits of major concern (Michael et al., 2013). Aquatic bodies, including lakes, rivers, streams and even coastlines, receive effluent from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), runoff from agricultural activity, and other human inputs and influences that may either serve to elevate natural background levels of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and stimulate their transfer into pathogens or other organisms, or as a conduit for the propagation of antibiotic resistant pathogens and clinical ARGs of concern (Michael et al., 2013). Current pathogen risk models are not equipped to factor in unique challenges that antibiotic resistance poses, including the potential that non-pathogenic antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) can serve as a reservoir to transfer their ARGs to pathogens or the role of selective agents, such as antibiotics and metals, in amplifying this potential. The challenge of controlling the spread of antibiotic resistance can have a different face in developed or developing countries, depending on local policies, practices, technologies and constraints. The articles in this e-book include new evidences of the origin, spread, and fate of ARB and ARGs in aquatic systems, focusing on water systems from wastewater, freshwater to seawater. These various media have gained attention as potential sources, sinks, or conduits in the potential to spread antibiotic resistance. It is well-known that heavy use of antibiotics and synthetic antimicrobial agents contribute to the selection pressure. The fate and impact of antibiotics used both in humans and livestock are of particular concern. Municipal and on-farm wastewater treatment is critical for controlling pollution and pathogens, but is not tailored specifically to the control of antibiotic resistance. WWTPs are mainly aimed at reducing solid and nutrient loads to surface waters, but this does not guarantee biodegradation of trace chemical pollutants or genetic elements. Although advanced disinfection facilities can greatly reduce the …