Knowledge Gaps and Research Needs in Bacterial Co-Resistance in the Environment

This chapter describes the different factors that increase or stimulate the presence of resistance to antibiotics in bacteria in the environment. Particular factors accentuating the spread and evolution of antibiotic resistance are various pollutants such as heavy metals, disinfectant products, other organic pollutants and nutrients. In particular, co-factors inducing resistance in water and sediments are explained. A particular emphasis is placed on the co-selection of antibiotic resistance genes due to the presence of metals, both in soil and in waters. Moreover, the role of nutrients and other organic contaminants in improving antibiotic resistance in bacteria is also highlighted. Finally, the role of the disinfection of waters and wastewaters in abatement of antibiotic resistance genes is reported.