Genomic Monitoring: A Novel Tool in Countering the Proliferation of Lethal Antimicrobial-Resistant Organisms

A recent study underscores the efficacy of genomic monitoring technologies in identifying and mitigating the spread of lethal antimicrobial-resistant microbes, often referred to as ‘superbugs.’ Without decisive action, the global death toll from these microbes could escalate to 10 million per year by the mid-century. The study advocates an inclusive ‘One Health’ strategy that encompasses human, animal, and environmental factors.

Exploiting advancements in genomic monitoring technologies holds promise in identifying the emergence of perilous ‘superbugs’ and curbing their evolutionary development and dissemination, thus enhancing global health, according to a recent study from Australia.

Antimicrobial resistance transpires when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve over time, becoming impervious to existing medications and treatments. These ‘superbugs’ complicate the management of infections and elevate the risks of widespread disease, serious illness, and fatality.

In the absence of substantial intervention, it is projected that deaths attributed to antimicrobial resistance will climb to 10 million annually by 2050, with developing and middle-income nations shouldering the greatest impact.

The ‘One Health’ Framework

The newly published research, titled “Genomic Surveillance for Antimicrobial Resistance—A One Health Perspective,” appearing in Nature Reviews Genetics, accentuates the importance of a multifaceted ‘One Health’ methodology for tracking antimicrobial resistance in various environments.

The scholarly effort was spearheaded by Distinguished Professor Steven Djordjevic of the Australian Institute for Microbiology and Infection at the University of Technology Sydney, in collaboration with academics from the University of Melbourne and the University of South Australia.

“The mutable characteristics of antimicrobial resistance render it a perpetually shifting and evolving menace. While there are no facile solutions, ongoing genomic monitoring could offer valuable insights to alleviate this global health issue,” stated Distinguished Professor Steven Djordjevic.

Global Concerns and Genomic Tracking

Professor Djordjevic emphasized that “Addressing antimicrobial resistance necessitates an extensive, well-coordinated, and interdisciplinary response.” He added, “Scrutinizing its evolution, emergence, and spread across humans, animals, plants, and natural settings is crucial for mitigating the enormous consequences linked to this issue.”

The application of genomic tracking throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on the capabilities of genomic technologies in observing the formation and dissemination of antimicrobial genes and variations.

Professor Erica Donner from the University of South Australia explained, “Antimicrobial resistance arises when microorganisms acquire genetic traits through mutation, recombination, or the transfer of antibiotic resistance genes. Genomic technologies, when coupled with artificial intelligence and machine learning, constitute formidable means for discerning resistance patterns and tracking the transfer of microbial genetic material across diverse settings.”

Recommendations and Mobilization

The paper serves as a clarion call to policymakers, urging the creation of nationwide genomic monitoring initiatives that span human and animal health, agriculture, food, and environmental management. The objective is to facilitate data-sharing at both national and international scales.

“Employing microbial genomics within a framework of effective cross-sectoral data amalgamation will deepen our understanding of how antimicrobial resistance originates and proliferates across various sectors and will enable us to pinpoint targeted interventions,” said Professor Ben Howden of the University of Melbourne.

Practical guidance offered by the researchers for the implementation of genomic-based monitoring and prevention tactics also stressed the need for equitable approaches that involve partners from developing and middle-income countries. These guidelines encompass:

• Instituting a national One Health antimicrobial resistance surveillance program that incorporates genomic techniques.
• Enhancing public awareness and educational efforts concerning antimicrobial resistance while promoting collaboration.
• Upgrading laboratory capabilities in developing and middle-income countries.
• Fostering research and technological innovation.
• Bolstering regulations and oversight within the agricultural sector.
• Promoting responsible antibiotic stewardship.

“As the issue of antimicrobial resistance is inherently dynamic and ever-changing, there are no straightforward resolutions. However, continual genomic monitoring can furnish valuable insights to lessen the severity of this global health dilemma,” concluded Professor Djordjevic.

Reference: “Genomic Surveillance for Antimicrobial Resistance—A One Health Perspective” by Steven P. Djordjevic, Veronica M. Jarocki, Torsten Seemann, Max L. Cummins, Anne E. Watt, Barbara Drigo, Ethan R. Wyrsch, Cameron J. Reid, Erica Donner, and Benjamin P. Howden, published on 25 September 2023 in Nature Reviews Genetics.
DOI: 10.1038/s41576-023-00649-y

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about genomic monitoring

More about genomic monitoring

• Nature Reviews Genetics: Original Study
• World Health Organization on Antimicrobial Resistance
• University of Technology Sydney: Australian Institute for Microbiology and Infection
• One Health Initiative
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Genomic Surveillance
• United Nations on Sustainable Development Goals and Health
• Global Report on Antimicrobial Resistance
• National Institute of Health on Genomics and Antimicrobial Resistance