ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE: GENETIC AND BIOCHEMICAL BASIS OF BACTERIAL ADAPTATION AND IMMUNOLOGICAL CHALLENGES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/revgeov16n5-143Keywords:
Antimicrobial Resistance, Genetic Mechanisms, Bacterial Adaptation, Immunological ChallengesAbstract
Antimicrobial resistance constitutes a contemporary global health challenge, characterized by bacterial adaptive capacity against selective pressure exerted by antimicrobial agents. This phenomenon compromises consolidated therapeutic efficacy and amplifies morbidity and mortality indices associated with resistant infections. The present study critically analyzes the genetic and biochemical bases of bacterial antimicrobial resistance, correlating them with immunological challenges imposed on the host. The methodology is based on systematic review of contemporary scientific literature, through searches in international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO) from 2020 to 2025, with qualitative analysis of 42 selected publications. Results demonstrate five main mechanisms: horizontal gene transfer, enzymatic inactivation of antimicrobials, modification of molecular targets, activation of efflux systems, and biofilm formation. Additionally, metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic regulation are identified as emerging determinants. The convergence between resistance and virulence factors amplifies bacterial pathogenicity, compromising the host immune response. It is concluded that antimicrobial resistance represents a multidimensional phenomenon, demanding integrated approaches that transcend the traditional paradigm of developing new antimicrobials, incorporating antipathogenic strategies, immunomodulatory interventions, and One Health perspective.
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