Mechanisms of resistance

Mechanisms of resistance refer to how bacteria or other organisms adapt to survive despite treatments like antibiotics or pesticides. They develop this ability through genetic changes—mutations—or by acquiring resistance genes from others. These changes can alter the target of the treatment, making it less effective, or produce substances that deactivate the treatment. In essence, resistance mechanisms enable organisms to fend off the effects of drugs or chemicals designed to eliminate them, making infections or problems harder to control. Understanding these mechanisms helps in developing better strategies to combat resistance and maintain treatment effectiveness.