Antibiotic resistance

Definition

Antibiotic resistance refers to the ability of bacteria or other microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, rendering them ineffective in treating infections. This occurs when bacteria mutate or acquire genes that allow them to survive and multiply even in the presence of antibiotics.

Related terms

Natural selection: The process by which organisms with traits beneficial for survival and reproduction are more likely to pass on those traits to future generations.

Horizontal gene transfer: The transfer of genetic material between different organisms, allowing for the spread of antibiotic resistance genes among bacterial populations.

Superbugs: Bacteria that have developed resistance not just against one type of antibiotic but multiple types, making them difficult or impossible to treat effectively.