GENOMIC INSIGHTS INTO ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE: UNRAVELING MECHANISMS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR LABORATORY AND PUBLIC HEALTH STRATEGIES

Saadi Saad Alanazi*, Dr. Tahani Mohammed Alqurashi, Mutlaq Gatar N. Alruwas, Abdullah Ibrahim Al Eissa, Khalid Saad Matar Alshammari and Abdulaziz Abdullah Mughiran Alharbi, Raud Mater Husayban Al-Mutairi

ABSTRACT

Background: The effectiveness of therapies for bacterial infections is compromised by antibiotic resistance, which also raises healthcare expenses. Antibiotic resistance is a serious worldwide health concern. Higher rates of morbidity and mortality have resulted from the quick development and spread of bacterial resistance mechanisms, which have made many antibiotics useless. By identifying resistance genes, regulatory networks, and evolutionary pathways, genomic advances provide vital insights into the genetic basis of resistance. Comprehending these genetic pathways is essential for creating novel treatments and methods to mitigate resistance. Aim: The purpose of this work is to examine the genomic underpinnings of antibiotic resistance, with an emphasis on horizontal gene transfer pathways and genetic adaptations. It investigates how the creation of innovative treatment strategies and public health initiatives is influenced by these genetic discoveries. Methods: Information from metagenomics, comparative genomics, whole-genome sequencing (WGS), and bioinformatics is combined in this study. To investigate mechanisms such efflux pumps, enzymatic degradation, and target site alterations, resistance gene databases and literature are examined. Mechanisms of horizontal gene transfer are emphasized, such as integron dynamics and plasmid-mediated conjugation. Results: According to genomic investigations, resistance develops as a result of regulatory adjustments, gene acquisitions, and intrinsic mutations. Target site changes, β-lactamase enzymes, and efflux pump systems are common methods. The spread of resistance is greatly aided by horizontal gene transfer through integrons and plasmids. Hotspots for the emergence of resistance are environmental reservoirs. Conclusion: pathways of bacterial survival and spread are revealed by genomic insights into antibiotic resistance. To effectively tackle resistance, these findings highlight the necessity of focused antimicrobial stewardship, strong surveillance systems, and genome-informed medication design.

Keywords: metagenomics, whole-genome sequencing, antibiotic resistance, genomics, efflux pumps, ?-lactamases, resistance genes, and horizontal gene transfer.