Persisters

Definition

Persisters are a subset of bacterial cells that can survive antibiotic treatment by entering a dormant state. They are not resistant to antibiotics but can resume growth once the treatment is stopped.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Persisters form a small fraction of the bacterial population, typically less than 1%.
2. They survive by entering a non-replicative state, making them tolerant to antibiotics.
3. Persisters do not have genetic mutations for antibiotic resistance; their tolerance is phenotypic.
4. This dormancy is reversible; persisters can return to an active state when favorable conditions return.
5. Persisters play a significant role in chronic infections and the relapse of bacterial diseases.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes persisters from antibiotic-resistant bacteria?
• How do persisters contribute to the recurrence of bacterial infections?
• Why are persister cells considered phenotypically tolerant rather than genetically resistant?

Related terms

Biofilm: A complex aggregation of microorganisms marked by the excretion of a protective and adhesive matrix.

Antibiotic Resistance: The ability of bacteria to withstand the effects of an antibiotic that they were once sensitive to.

Dormancy: A state in which cells exhibit minimal metabolic activity and do not grow, often as a survival strategy.