Antimicrobial resistance genes

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes are segments of genetic material in bacteria that enable them to survive exposure to antibiotics, the medicines used to kill or stop bacteria. When bacteria have these genes, antibiotics become less effective, making infections harder to treat. These resistance genes can be naturally present or acquired from other bacteria, spreading resistance. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics accelerate this process. Addressing AMR genes is vital to maintaining the effectiveness of antibiotics and ensuring we can treat bacterial infections successfully in the future.