Hyderabad, Mar 21 (TNT): Scientists have identified common antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes in bacteria across major Indian cities, indicating a widespread and consistent pattern of antibiotic resistance, according to a new study.
The research, conducted by the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) and partner institutions, and published in ‘Nature Communications’, provides the first comprehensive mapping of AMR in urban wastewater in India.
The study analysed 447 wastewater samples collected between March 2022 and March 2024 from 19 sites across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai using advanced metagenomics techniques.
Findings showed that while bacterial populations varied across cities, the genes responsible for antibiotic resistance were largely similar, suggesting common mechanisms of resistance.
Researchers found that bacteria develop resistance through genes that prevent antibiotic entry, break down drug molecules or expel them from cells. These genes can spread between bacteria, accelerating resistance.
The study also observed that certain bacteria such as *Klebsiella pneumoniae* were more prevalent in Chennai and Mumbai, while *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* dominated in Kolkata, though resistance patterns remained consistent.
It further noted that resistance genes for antibiotics such as tetracyclines and beta-lactams spread more easily compared to macrolides.
The researchers called for wider adoption of wastewater-based surveillance systems to track the spread of drug-resistant pathogens and detect outbreaks early.
CCMB Director Dr Vinay K Nandicoori said a standard protocol has been developed to enable storage of samples for up to seven days without compromising quality, facilitating easier transport and testing.
The study underlined the need for strengthening surveillance systems to address the growing public health challenge posed by antimicrobial resistance in India.
TNT TS
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