The gut microbiome: an emerging epicenter of antimicrobial resistance?

The human gut is one of the most densely populated microbial environments, home to trillions of microorganisms that live in harmony with the body. These microbes help with digestion and play key roles in maintaining a balanced immune system and protecting us from harmful pathogens. However, the crowded nature of this ecosystem makes it easier for harmful bacteria to acquire antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes, which can lead to multidrug-resistant (MDR) infections. The rise of MDR infections makes treatments harder, leading to more extended hospital stays, relapses, and worse outcomes for patients, ultimately increasing healthcare costs and environmental strain. Since many MDR infections are challenging to treat, nosocomial infection control protocols and infection prevention programmes are frequently the only measures in our hands to stop the spread of these bacteria. New approaches are therefore urgently required to prevent the colonization of MDR infections. This review aims to explore the current understanding of antimicrobial resistance pathways, focusing on how the gut microbiota contributes to AMR. We have also emphasized the potential strategies to prevent the spread and colonization of MDR infections.