The hospital sink drain microbiome as a melting pot for AMR transmission to nosocomial pathogens

Abstract The hospital sink drain microbiome can harbour opportunistic pathogens and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). Aspects of this habitat, such as exposure to disinfectants, antibiotics, nutrients, and body fluids could exacerbate horizontal gene transfer of ARGs and clinically impactful pa...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Gregory E. McCallum, James P. J. Hall
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Nature Portfolio 2025-07-01
Series:npj Antimicrobials and Resistance
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1038/s44259-025-00137-9
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Abstract The hospital sink drain microbiome can harbour opportunistic pathogens and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs). Aspects of this habitat, such as exposure to disinfectants, antibiotics, nutrients, and body fluids could exacerbate horizontal gene transfer of ARGs and clinically impactful pathogen resistance. Here, we explore features of the hospital sink drain that may favour ARG acquisition and transmission, highlight studies providing evidence of transfer, and consider strategies to mitigate these risks.
ISSN:2731-8745