Antibiotic resistant bacteria are emerging in today’s society as a major health and economic problem. Through the misuse and overuse of antibiotics we are seeing a major increase in both gram-positive and gram-negative multiple resistant bacteria. If we do not curve the use of antibiotics and have an increased focused approach across the broad spectrum we will see an increase to the cost of patient treatment and patient mortality (Marin H et al 2001).
It has been found that through a study by Floyd Romesberg that bacteria can develop resistance without contact with other bacteria. The study using ciproflaxin and rifampicin it was discovered bacteria are able to develop antibiotic resistance by preventing repression of the SOS response; therefore mutation is able to occur (Gene M 2005).
A mechanism involving both RecA and LexA has been found to be integral to the development of antibiotic resistance. LexA aids in the mechanism of resistance by repressing the SOS response to damage by binding to RecA which forms around the DNA, splitting it and releasing the depression. If bacteria are able to develop resistance on their own are we going to be able to stop the increase of infection (Gene M 2005)?
In order to decrease the number patients infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria a more nationalised approach needs to be looked at. Protocols and guidelines need to be addressed to prevent unnecessary use and increase the effectiveness of antibiotics (Marin H et al 2001).
It has been found that through a study by Floyd Romesberg that bacteria can develop resistance without contact with other bacteria. The study using ciproflaxin and rifampicin it was discovered bacteria are able to develop antibiotic resistance by preventing repression of the SOS response; therefore mutation is able to occur (Gene M 2005).
A mechanism involving both RecA and LexA has been found to be integral to the development of antibiotic resistance. LexA aids in the mechanism of resistance by repressing the SOS response to damage by binding to RecA which forms around the DNA, splitting it and releasing the depression. If bacteria are able to develop resistance on their own are we going to be able to stop the increase of infection (Gene M 2005)?
In order to decrease the number patients infected with antibiotic resistant bacteria a more nationalised approach needs to be looked at. Protocols and guidelines need to be addressed to prevent unnecessary use and increase the effectiveness of antibiotics (Marin H et al 2001).
Written by: Simon L Troth (s4139593)
1. Marin H. Kollef, MD, and Victoria J. Fraser, MD. (2001). Antibiotic Resistance in the Intensive Care Unit. Annals of Internal Medicine, Volume 134 Issue 4, pages 298-314.
2. Gene M (2005). Evolution under intrinsic control.http://www.idthink.net/biot/lexA/index.html
3. Dent S (2000). Deadly risks of antibiotic overuse warrant widespread education. FP Report March 2000 • Volume 6 • Number 3
