How does bacteria evolve to become resistant to antibiotics?

Antibiotic resistance is a consequence of evolution via natural selection. The antibiotic action is an environmental pressure; those bacteria which have a mutation allowing them to survive will live on to reproduce. They will then pass this trait to their offspring, which will be a fully resistant generation.

Why are antibiotic resistant bacteria so dangerous?

Bacteria, not humans or animals, become antibiotic-resistant. These bacteria may infect humans and animals, and the infections they cause are harder to treat than those caused by non-resistant bacteria. Antibiotic resistance leads to higher medical costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality.

What are superbugs and why are they so dangerous?

Superbugs are bacteria or fungi that have developed the ability to withstand commonly prescribed drugs. A superbug can infect anyone, but some people may have a higher risk for infection because they’ve been exposed to superbugs in a medical facility or have a weakened immune system because of a chronic illness.

When did bacteria become resistant to penicillin?

The first case of penicillin resistance was observed in 1947. The period between 1950 and 1960 is often referred to as the golden age of antibiotic discovery, as one-half of the antibiotics commonly used today were discovered during these years.

How do bacteria develop resistance?

Bacteria develop resistance mechanisms by using instructions provided by their DNA. Often, resistance genes are found within plasmids, small pieces of DNA that carry genetic instructions from one germ to another. This means that some bacteria can share their DNA and make other germs become resistant.

Can bacteria lose their antibiotic resistance?

Yes, antibiotic resistance traits can be lost, but this reverse process occurs more slowly. If the selective pressure that is applied by the presence of an antibiotic is removed, the bacterial population can potentially revert to a population of bacteria that responds to antibiotics.

How do bacteria become superbugs?

Superbugs aren’t specific types of bacteria; all bacteria species can turn into superbugs. “Misusing antibiotics (such as taking them when you don’t need them or not finishing all of your medicine) is the single leading factor contributing to this problem, the CDC says.

How do bacteria evolve so fast?

Bacteria can evolve quickly because they reproduce at a fast rate. Mutations of bacteria produce new strains. Some bacteria might become resistant to certain antibiotics , such as penicillin, and cannot be destroyed by the antibiotic. The evolution of the bacteria is an example of natural selection .

What are bacteria that do not need oxygen to survive?

Bacteria that do not need oxygen to survive are called anaerobic bacteria. They may also live in places that have very little oxygen. A couple examples of diseases that are caused by anaerobic bacteria are tetanus and botulism.

How do some microbes survive freezing temperatures?

Also, some microbes produce special proteins that prevent ice crystal formation, thus water remains liquid around them. Another way microbes can survive freezing is that at low temperatures the vast majority of bacteria enter into a dormant phase (similar to hibernation) and shows no metabolic activity.

Does free freezing kill bacteria and germs?

Freezing kills some amount of bacteria and germs, but usually, most of them enter a dormant state and stay alive in the frozen food or liquid. These bacteria are not killed. After thawing they come to life and begin to multiply. However, a lot depends on the species of bacteria and the freezing process itself.

How does oxygen affect the growth of bacteria?

The presence of oxygen can greatly affect the growth of bacteria. Many types of disease-causing bacteria grow best in an oxygen-rich environment or require oxygen to grow. This is why many commercial foods are vacuum-sealed.