The interplay between antimicrobial resistance, heavy metal pollution and the role of microplastics

Heavy metals (HMs) and microplastics (MPs) are interlinked in microbial ecosystems, promoting antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). HMs, such as lead, mercury, arsenic, chromium, cadmium, and nickel, have selectively selected for resistance traits through efflux systems and genetic coregulation. MPs create genetic exchange hotspots due to biofilm formation, influencing ARG abundance. Organic matter modulates these dynamics. Soil and water ecosystems are reservoirs for ARGs and ARG-MRG combinations. Integrated environmental and public health strategies are needed to mitigate pollutant-driven AMR.