Effects of microplastic concentration, composition, and size on <i>Escherichia coli</i> biofilm-associated antimicrobial resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the world's most pressing global health crises. With the pipeline of antibiotics running dry, it is imperative that mitigation strategies understand the mechanisms that drive the genesis of AMR. One emerging dimension of AMR is the environment. This study highlights the relationship between a widespread environmental pollutant, microplastics (MPs), and the rise of drug-resistant bacteria. While it is known that MPs facilitate resistance through several modes (biofilm formation, plastic adsorption rates, etc.), this study fills the knowledge gap on how different types of MPs are contributing to AMR.